Code for no SPD on new build

[newfutile]

I usually code no spd with no code or a C3.
However I have been sent to check compliance with BS 7671 on some new builds, there is no SPD present.

We usually say the date installed does not make a difference to coding but it does in a way.

The same may apply if Arc Fault Detection Device not installed in high rise flats or care homes.

 

[littlespark]

As far as I’m aware, can the occupant still refuse an SPD, if they decide that they don’t need one?
Signed waiver after risk assessment?

Don’t know how that stands with a developer/ builder, As they are the customer, but not the final user.

new builds should have capacity, and even a cable already in for EV point…

 

[newfutile]

As far as I’m aware, can the occupant still refuse an SPD, if they decide that they don’t need one?
Signed waiver after risk assessment?

Don’t know how that stands with a developer/ builder, As they are the customer, but not the final user.

new builds should have capacity, and even a cable already in for EV point…

its in a communal area which includes AOV door entry and emergency lighting.
i work for a housing association so we are the client

 

[littlespark]

Gotcha.

I thought you’de been brought in as a 3rd party to check someone else’s job.


Should it have been specced beforehand whether to include SPDs?

I wouldn’t expect it needs it. There’s not a lot there to be damaged if a surge was to happen.
Not like thousands of pounds worth of consumer electronics going PFFFT!

Is “communal areas” classed as domestic or outwith that description?

 

[mainline]

its in a communal area which includes AOV door entry and emergency lighting.
i work for a housing association so we are the client

Regulation 443.4.1 requires protection against transient overvoltages to be provided where the consequence
caused by the overvoltage could result in:
(i) serious injury to, or loss of, human life
(ii) failure of a safety service, as defined in Part 2
(iii) significant financial or data loss.

I would have thought that applies to emergency lighting and smoke alarms.

 

[Pretty Mouth]

Regulation 443.4.1 requires protection against transient overvoltages to be provided where the consequence
caused by the overvoltage could result in:
(i) serious injury to, or loss of, human life
(ii) failure of a safety service, as defined in Part 2
(iii) significant financial or data loss.

I would have thought that applies to emergency lighting and smoke alarms.

Point (ii) was removed in a corrigendum in 2023:

Indent (ii) of Regulation 443.4.1 has been removed. The term safety service, formerly included in Regulation 443.4.1 (ii), encompassed a wide range of systems. The provision, therefore, had unintended consequences for improvements to fire safety systems within installations.