I don't think this can be construed as just a recommendation:-
"Protection against transient overvoltages shall be provided where the consequence caused by overvoltage could:
(i) result in serious injury to, or loss of, human life, or
(ii) result in interruption of public services and/or damage to cultural heritage, or
(iii) result in interruption of commercial or industrial activity, or
(iv) affect a large number of co-located individuals.
For all other cases, a risk assessment according to Regulation 443.5 shall be performed in order to determine if protection against transient overvoltages is required. If the risk assessment is not performed, the electrical installation shall be provided with protection against transient overvoltages, except for single dwelling units where the total value of the installation and equipment therein does not justify such protection."
Given the cost of SPDs and the cost of the installation and connected equipment within a typical home these days, I think arguing it's not economically justified to fit one is pushing it a little.