Data from 3,510 property assessments shows IP21 averaging 58 out of 100, placing it below the national average. For reference, the England and Wales average is 67 — so IP21 is below that benchmark. The most common rating band is D, with 10.3% of homes rated A or B and 51.9% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 11.2% of homes sit in the F or G bands — the least efficient categories. In practical terms, a rating of D means many homes here lose more heat than average — potentially adding £200-400 per year to energy bills compared to a C-rated home.

Walk through IP21 and you will mostly see houses. Around 69% of properties are owner-occupied and 16% are social housing. Oil-fired heating is common in this part of IP21, reflecting the more rural character of the area and limited mains gas coverage.

There is genuine room for improvement here. If every recommended upgrade were carried out, the average score could climb from 58 to 80 — a 22-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. That is a substantial gain, suggesting many homes are missing basic efficiency measures. If you live in IP21 and want to reduce your energy bills, start with our guide to loft insulation — it is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.