For the 12,151 homes assessed in SO14, the average energy score comes in at 70 out of 100, placing it around the national average. The national average is 67, which means SO14 performs roughly in line with the rest of the country. The most common rating band is C, with 19.0% of homes rated A or B and 71.1% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 1.3% 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.

Flats make up the bulk of the housing in this district. Flats alone account for 72% of all certificated properties — a distinctly urban profile. Around 31% of properties are owner-occupied , while 46% are privately rented and 23% are social housing. That high proportion of rental homes matters — landlords in SO14 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 70 to 78 — a 8-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. If you live in SO14 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.