SW5 is around the national average for energy efficiency.
Looking at the energy data for SW5, this Kensington and Chelsea district scores an average of 66 out of 100, placing it around the national average. Compared to the national average of 67, that puts SW5 around the norm for England and Wales. The most common rating band is C, with 2.2% of homes rated A or B and 85.8% in the C or D bands. Meanwhile, 2% 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.
The area is characterised by flats. Flats alone account for 92% of all certificated properties — a distinctly urban profile. Around 39% of properties are owner-occupied , while 45% are privately rented and 16% are social housing. That high proportion of rental homes matters — landlords in SW5 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. Gas central heating is the main fuel source for 82% 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 66 to 77 — a 11-point jump that would lift the typical rating to C. If you live in SW5 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: 77 (rating C)
Recommended Improvements
Government funding may be available for some of these improvements. Check grants →
More data — property types, tenure & fuel
Property Types
Tenure
Over 35% of homes in SW5 are privately rented — private rental properties often have lower EPC ratings.
Main Fuel Types
Frequently asked questions
What is the average EPC rating in SW5?
Homes in SW5 have an average EPC rating of D, scoring 66 out of 100 for energy efficiency. That figure comes from 7,399 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 SW5 are rated F or G?
2% of homes in SW5 fall into the F or G bands — the lowest energy efficiency ratings. Nationally, the figure is 2.9%.
This is actually better than the national picture, suggesting the housing stock in SW5 is in relatively good shape — though any home rated F or G would still benefit enormously from basic upgrades. Landlords should note that F and G rated properties cannot legally be rented out under current MEES rules.