The 5,531 EPC certificates on record for RG20 paint a clear picture — the area averages 59 out of 100, placing it below the national average. The national average is 67, which means RG20 performs below most areas. The most common rating band is D, with 6.2% of homes rated A or B and 58.9% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 10% 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.

Houses make up the bulk of the housing in this district. Around 65% of properties are owner-occupied and 18% are social housing. Oil-fired heating is common in this part of RG20, 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 59 to 79 — a 20-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 RG20 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.