SO51 is around the national average for energy efficiency.
4.1% of homes are rated F or G — above the national average of 2.9%.
Based on 9,683 Energy Performance Certificates, SO51 in Test Valley has an average EPC score of 68 out of 100, placing it around the national average. To put this in context, the national average sits at 67. The most common rating band is D, with 22.0% of homes rated A or B and 62.5% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 4.1% 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.
Most of the housing stock here consists of houses. Around 74% of properties are owner-occupied . Gas central heating is the main fuel source for 73% of homes, which is typical for urban areas across England.
There is genuine room for improvement here. If every recommended upgrade were carried out, the average score could climb from 68 to 82 — a 14-point jump that would lift the typical rating to B. If you live in SO51 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.
EPC Rating Distribution
Energy Efficiency Score
Potential score if all improvements made: 82 (rating B)
Recommended Improvements
Government funding may be available for some of these improvements. Check grants →
More data — property types, tenure & fuel
Property Types
Tenure
Main Fuel Types
Frequently asked questions
What is the average EPC rating in SO51?
Homes in SO51 have an average EPC rating of D, scoring 68 out of 100 for energy efficiency. That figure comes from 9,683 certificates issued across the district.
This is broadly in line with the national average of 67 — neither particularly efficient nor particularly wasteful. A D rating typically means higher-than-necessary heating bills, especially in older properties without adequate insulation.
What percentage of homes in SO51 are rated F or G?
4.1% of homes in SO51 fall into the F or G bands — the lowest energy efficiency ratings. Nationally, the figure is 2.9%.
That means SO51 has a higher-than-average proportion of poorly insulated homes. On the positive side, many of these properties may qualify for free improvements through government schemes like ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme. Landlords should note that F and G rated properties cannot legally be rented out under current MEES rules.