Across 5,286 assessed properties, NE1 achieves an average EPC score of 72 out of 100, placing it above the national average. For reference, the England and Wales average is 67 — so NE1 is above that benchmark. The most common rating band is C, with 20.2% of homes rated A or B and 72.5% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 0.8% of homes sit in the F or G bands — the least efficient categories. In practical terms, a C rating suggests reasonably efficient homes, though there is still room for improvement on heating and insulation.

Walk through NE1 and you will mostly see flats. Flats alone account for 90% of all certificated properties — a distinctly urban profile. Around 27% of properties are owner-occupied , while 55% are privately rented and 18% are social housing. That high proportion of rental homes matters — landlords in NE1 must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which currently require at least an EPC E rating. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let. A significant share of homes here rely on electric heating, which tends to be more expensive per unit of energy than gas.

There is genuine room for improvement here. If every recommended upgrade were carried out, the average score could climb from 72 to 79 — a 7-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. If you live in NE1 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.