Across 3,547 assessed properties, IP9 achieves an average EPC score of 61 out of 100, placing it below the national average. For reference, the England and Wales average is 67 — so IP9 is below that benchmark. The most common rating band is D, with 16.6% of homes rated A or B and 52.6% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 8.4% 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 IP9 and you will mostly see houses. Around 78% of properties are owner-occupied . Oil-fired heating is common in this part of IP9, 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 61 to 81 — a 20-point jump that would lift the typical rating to B. That is a substantial gain, suggesting many homes are missing basic efficiency measures. If you live in IP9 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.