According to the Communities and Local Government Department (DCLG), council houses are among the most energy efficient homes in the country.

Its new report reveals that the social housing sector, currently undergoing a £40bn overhaul, is much more energy efficient and is updated at a faster rate than privately-owned housing.

Over three quarters (77%) of social sector housing has cavity walls, compared to just over two thirds (67%) of private homes. Just a quarter (27%) of private homes have adequate loft insulation, while almost a half (44%) of social sector houses boast 150mm of insulation or more.

Yvette Cooper, housing minister, said: “This report shows the multi-billion pound investment in helping the environment as well as families’ fuel bills. Council houses are now much greener than private homes.

“It shows that major refurbishment’s to deliver decent homes are far more than Changing Rooms-style makeovers. Modern central heating and insulation is being installed alongside new kitchens and bathrooms.”