EPISODE: 035 - APPROVED DOCUMENT S - INFRASTRUCTURE FOR CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES
- Piotr Bytnar BEng (Hons) MSc CEng MIStructE
- Nov 14, 2024
- 28 min read
Updated: Jun 27, 2025
BYTNAR - TALKS
EPISODE: 035 - APPROVED DOCUMENT S - INFRASTRUCTURE FOR CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES
This episode is for people who want to know more about Approved Document Part S
You should like this episode if you ask yourself questions like:
What are the requirements for electric vehicle (EV) charging points in new residential buildings?
Are EV charging points required for buildings undergoing a material change of use?
What are the EV charging point regulations for new non-residential buildings with parking spaces?
Do mixed-use buildings have specific requirements for EV charging points?
How do EV charging point requirements apply to buildings undergoing major renovations?
What standards must be followed for EV charging points and cable routes in residential buildings?
Are there exemptions for installing EV charging points in historic or traditional buildings?
What is the maximum cost allowed for installing EV charging points in renovations of non-residential buildings?
This is Bytnar Talks: The Engineer Takes on Construction, Episode 35.
Hi, I'm Piotr Bytnar. Each day, I help my clients plan and design building projects through Bytnar Limited, a consulting Chartered Structural Engineers practice. My biggest passion — and the cornerstone on which I've built my business — is finding clever solutions for construction projects.
I am a Chartered Structural Engineer and a budding software developer, so you can rest assured that I will strive to talk about best practices and the use of new technologies in the industry. If you're embarking on a construction project, or are involved in planning, designing, and building the world around us, you'll find this podcast useful.
Approved Document S: Infrastructure for Charging of Electric Vehicles
Hi guys, and welcome to Bytnar Talks, your favorite podcast on all matters of architecture, engineering, and construction. It is Thursday, the 14th of November 2024, and I'm here back with you with the 35th episode — and information on Approved Document S: Infrastructure for Charging of Electric Vehicles.
It has been another busy week, dealing with all sorts — from simple assessments of cracks in walls to advice on developments and designs of structures. I'm glad to be able to juggle it all with the delivery of this podcast for you. It makes the game constant, but short breaks for recharging and family life top my batteries up a little bit and make me plow ahead.
This week, we have launched a feedback-gathering exercise within the domestic clients' world. I wonder if you've seen it. If you haven't, look around — and if you do, give us feedback and tell us what you think about it.
We ask simply that you share your disappointments and lessons learned on your projects in an attempt to create a plain language guide for domestic clients. We are interested in views, opinions, and experiences of house builders, extension builders, individuals, and developers.
We find that institutions fall short in addressing the issue, and we also find that professionals talk about their grievances more than actually being helpful. That does not cut through and is not particularly helpful to people who initiate these projects.
I hope you will engage with us on this one — and send me an email or a LinkedIn message sharing your experiences.
For now, let's go back to the delivery of these episodes, starting with the recap of the last one first.
In the last episode, I talked about Approved Document R: Infrastructure for Electronic Communications, of which Volume One provides guidelines for ensuring your dwellings are gigabit-ready.
Requirement R1 mandates that each dwelling has infrastructure capable of a gigabit per second — so 125 megabytes per second — either through wired or fixed wireless connections from the access point to the nearest network distribution point.
Exceptions include non-residential buildings, major renovations, and remote locations with high connection costs. Developers should engage with network operators early in the planning process, and they should reference Appendix B for building control requirements — a table with information that building control requires.
For compliance infrastructure should prevent air or moisture intrusion, include fire stopping where needed, and meet flammability requirements in specific areas — such as high-rise buildings and when you're putting your cabling on internal walls.
Each unit in multi-dwelling buildings needs its own gigabit-capable termination point, with placement guidance referencing NHBC’s N67 guide.
Section Two requires developers to connect new dwellings to gigabit-capable networks in partnership with operators of those networks. If costs exceed £2,000 per unit, developers may consider alternative connections — consulting at least two operators to verify the costs.
Section Three covers building control documentation, including installation evidence and exemption requests if applicable.
Volume Two outlines infrastructure for high-speed networks — which is a minimum of 30 megabits per second — when Requirement RA1 does not apply, typically for new builds or major renovations. Infrastructure includes a simple access point and termination point, with connections arranged by the developer as needed.
Exclusions include remote, historic, and possibly even conservation zone properties.
The PAS 2016 and NHBC Connected Homes Guide are recommended for best practices.
In this episode, I’ll move to Approved Document S: Infrastructure for Charging of Electric Vehicles.
So, without further ado, let's dive straight into this.
In this episode, I'll talk about the statutory guidance contained within Approved Document S: Infrastructure for Charging of Electric Vehicles. The document covers the requirements of Part S — Requirements S1 to S6 — and Regulations 44D, E, F, G, H, I, and J. Both Requirements S and Regulations 44 with different letters come together as pairs.
It is contained within seven sections — Sections 0 to 6. It covers the introduction, charging provisions for new residential buildings, material change of use into dwellings, major renovations in residential buildings, buildings other than residential (either mixed-use or not, or new or undergoing major renovations), as well as standards for charge points and cable routes.
If you don’t want to listen to the rest of it, just know: we need to make sure that new infrastructure — when we are doing major work to the building — uses the occasion to upgrade it so we can charge our future electric vehicles.
For domestic reasons, we’ll be thinking about enough provision for every single dwelling, whereas in other settings, we’ll be thinking about every fifth car.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of this approved document, shall we?
Alright, guys — starting with the text of the legislation first.
The Requirements S will be followed immediately with the associated Regulation 44.
The Erection of New Residential Buildings
That’s Requirement S1.1: A new residential building with associated parking must have access to electric vehicle charge points, as provided for in paragraph 2.
Paragraph 2: The number of associated parking spaces which have access to electric vehicle charge points must be:
A) The total number of associated parking spaces where there are fewer associated parking spaces than there are dwellings contained in the residential building; or
B) The number of associated parking spaces that is equal to the total number of dwellings contained in the residential building where there are the same number of associated parking spaces as, or more associated parking spaces than, there are dwellings.
Paragraph 3: Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in any associated parking spaces which do not — in accordance with paragraph 2 — have an electric vehicle charge point, where:
A) A new residential building has more than 10 associated parking spaces; and
B) There are more associated parking spaces than there are dwellings contained in the residential building.
Application of Paragraph S1 of Schedule One
That’s Regulation 44D.
Paragraph 1: The requirements of Paragraph S1 of Schedule One apply in relation to the erection of a new residential building with associated parking as follows:
Paragraph 2: The number of electric vehicle charge points that must be installed is the maximum number of electric vehicle charge points that is possible to install at an average sum of £3,600 for the connection cost of each electric vehicle charge point connection — the so-called “£3,600 cap.”
Paragraph 3: If it is not possible to completely fulfil the requirements of Paragraph S1, Paragraph 2 of Schedule One, as a result of the operation of the £3,600 cap, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in the associated parking spaces that would otherwise be required to have electric vehicle charge points — but for the operation of the £3,600 cap.
Paragraph 4: Where the new residential building has, or will have, associated parking that is situated within a covered car park:
A) If there are or will be any associated parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
i) The requirements of Paragraph S1 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those parking spaces.
ii) If the number of associated parking spaces which are situated in a position other than in the covered car park is insufficient to completely fulfil the requirements of Paragraph S1, Paragraph 2 of Schedule One, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in:
Sub-paragraph AA: The number of parking spaces in the covered car park which, when added to the number of associated parking spaces situated outside the covered car park, corresponds to the total number of dwellings with associated parking where the total number of associated parking spaces is 10 or less.
Sub-paragraph BB: All the associated parking spaces in the covered car park where the total number of associated parking spaces is both less than the number of dwellings with associated parking and 10 or fewer.
Sub-paragraph C: All the associated parking spaces in the covered car park, where the total number of the associated parking spaces is more than 10.
Going back to sub-paragraph B — if all the associated parking spaces are situated in the covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed:
Sub-paragraph i: Where there are 10 or fewer parking spaces.
Sub-paragraph AA: In the number of associated parking spaces in the covered car park which corresponds to the total number of dwellings with associated parking.
Sub-paragraph BB: In all the parking spaces, where there are fewer parking spaces than there are dwellings.
Going back a notch to sub-paragraph ii — in all the parking spaces in the covered car park, where there are more than 10 parking spaces.
Moving on to Requirement S2: Dwellings Resulting from Material Change of Use
Where one or more dwellings with associated parking result from a building or a part of a building undergoing a material change of use, at least one associated parking space for the use of each such dwelling must have access to an electric vehicle charge point.
Application of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One: Dwellings Resulting from a Material Change of Use
That’s Regulation 44E.
Paragraph 1: The requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One apply to a building or part of a building undergoing a material change of use to result in one or more dwellings, as follows:
Paragraph 2: The requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One apply:
A) If:
Sub-paragraph i: The circumstances specified in Regulation 5(a), (b), or (g) apply; and
Sub-paragraph ii: The material change of use involves building work being done, which includes work to any of the following:
Sub-paragraph AA: A car park that is located within the side boundary of the building, where the nature of the work is such that it would be reasonable to expect that the work is to include enabling the requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One to be fulfilled.
Sub-paragraph BB: The electrical infrastructure of a car park, where that car park is located within the side boundary of the building.
Sub-paragraph CC: The electrical infrastructure of the building, where a car park is located inside the building.
Going back to point B:
Paragraph B: Subject to Paragraph 3, if an electric vehicle charge point for each dwelling resulting from a building or part of a building undergoing a material change of use can be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply to the building without having to upgrade the capacity of the incoming electrical supply to the building.
And C: If the building is not one in relation to which Paragraph 4 applies.
Paragraph 3
If Paragraphs 2A and 2C apply, but electric vehicle charge points for some but not all of the dwellings resulting from a building or part of a building undergoing a material change of use can be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply to that building:
A) The requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One apply in respect of the maximum number of electric vehicle charge points that can be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in the associated parking spaces that would otherwise have been required — under Paragraph S2 of Schedule One — to have had electric vehicle charge points installed.
Paragraph 4
The requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One do not apply if a building or a part of a building is:
A) Listed, in accordance with Section 1 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990;
B) In a conservation area, designated in accordance with Section 69 of the Act; or
C) Included in the schedule of monuments maintained under Section 1 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, where compliance with the requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One would unacceptably alter the building's character or appearance.
Paragraph 5
If the building or part of the building undergoing a material change of use — to result in one or more dwellings — has or will have associated parking that is situated within a covered car park:
Sub-paragraph A: If there are or will be any associated parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
Sub-paragraph i: The requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those associated parking spaces.
Then sub-paragraph ii: If the number of associated parking spaces which are situated in a position other than in a covered car park is insufficient to completely fulfill the requirements of Paragraph S2 of Schedule One, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in:
Sub-paragraph AA: All the associated parking spaces in the covered car park where the total number of parking spaces is less than the number of such dwellings with associated parking; or
Sub-paragraph BB: The number of associated parking spaces in the covered car park which, when added to the number of associated parking spaces which are situated in a position other than in a covered car park, corresponds to the total number of such dwellings with associated parking.
Sub-paragraph B: If all the associated parking spaces are situated in a covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in:
i) All those associated parking spaces where there are fewer parking spaces than there are such dwellings with associated parking; or
ii) The number of those associated parking spaces that corresponds to the total number of such dwellings with associated parking.
Moving on to Requirement S3: Residential Buildings Undergoing Major Renovation
Where a residential building undergoing major renovation will have more than 10 associated parking spaces after the major renovation is completed:
Sub-paragraph A): At least one associated parking space for the use of each dwelling must have access to an electric vehicle charge point.
Sub-paragraph B): Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all additional associated parking spaces.
Application of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One: Residential Buildings Undergoing Major Renovations
That’s Regulation 44F.
Point 1: The requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One apply to a residential building undergoing major renovation as follows:
Point 2: The requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One apply if:
A) The major renovation involves building work being done, which includes work being done to any of the following:
i) A car park that is located within the side boundary of the building, where the nature of the work is such that it would be reasonable to expect that work to include enabling the requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One to be fulfilled.
ii) The electrical infrastructure of a car park, where the car park is located within the side boundary of the building.
iii) The electrical infrastructure of the building, where a car park is located inside the building.
B) The residential building will have more than 10 associated parking spaces upon completion of the work.
C) Subject to Paragraph 3, all the required electric vehicle charge points can be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply to the building.
D) The cost of installing all the required electric vehicle charge points and cable routes for electric vehicle charge points does not exceed 7% of the total cost of the major renovation.
E) The residential building is not one in relation to which Paragraph 5 applies.
Paragraph 3
If Paragraphs 2A, 2B, 2D, and 2E apply — but all the required electric vehicle charge points cannot be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply to the building:
A) The requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One apply only in respect of the maximum number of electric vehicle charge points that can be accommodated within the incoming electrical supply to the building.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all remaining associated parking spaces.
Paragraph 4
If the cost of installing the required electric vehicle charge points and cable routes for electric vehicle charge points exceeds 7% of the total cost of the major renovation:
A) The residential building is exempt from the requirement to install any electric vehicle charge points.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all associated parking spaces, except where the cost of that installation exceeds 7% of the total cost of the major renovation.
Paragraph 5
The requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One do not apply to a residential building which is undergoing major renovation for the principal purpose of improving the fire safety of the external walls or roof of the building.
Paragraph 6
If a residential building undergoing major renovation has or will have more than 10 associated parking spaces.
A) If there are or will be any associated parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
i) The requirements of Paragraph S3 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those associated parking spaces.
ii) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all the associated parking spaces in the covered car park.
B) If all the associated parking spaces are situated in a covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all the parking spaces in the covered car park.
Moving to Requirement S4: Erection of New Buildings Which Are Not Residential Buildings or Mixed-Use Buildings
Where a new building — which is not a residential building or a mixed-use building — has more than 10 parking spaces:
A) One of those parking spaces must have access to one electric vehicle charge point.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a minimum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total number of remaining parking spaces.
Application of Paragraph S4 of Schedule One: Erection of New Buildings Which Are Not Residential or Mixed-Use Buildings
Regulation 44G
Paragraph 1: The requirements of Paragraph S4 of Schedule One apply to the erection of a new building which is not a residential building or a mixed-use building as follows:
Paragraph 2: If such a new building has or will have within its side boundary more than 10 parking spaces:
A) If there are or will be any parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
i) The requirements of Paragraph S4 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those parking spaces.
ii) If the number of parking spaces situated outside the covered car park is insufficient to completely fulfill the requirements of Paragraph S4 of Schedule One, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a sufficient number of parking spaces in the covered car park in order to ensure compliance with Paragraph S4, Point B of Schedule One.
B) If all the parking spaces are situated in a covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a minimum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total number of those parking spaces.
Now Moving to Requirement S5: Buildings Undergoing Major Renovation Which Are Not Residential or Mixed-Use Buildings
Where a building undergoing major renovation — which is not a residential building or a mixed-use building — will have more than 10 parking spaces after the renovation is completed:
A) One of those parking spaces must have access to one electric vehicle charge point.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a minimum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total number of remaining parking spaces.
Application of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One: Buildings Undergoing Major Renovation That Are Not Residential or Mixed-Use Buildings
Regulation 44H
Point 1: The requirements of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One apply to a building undergoing major renovation which is not a residential or mixed-use building as follows:
Paragraph 2: The requirements of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One apply to such a building if:
A) The major renovation involves building work being done which includes work to any of the following:
i) A car park that is located within the side boundary of the building, where the nature of the work is such that it would be reasonable to expect the requirements of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One to be fulfilled.
ii) The electrical infrastructure of a car park, where the car park is located within the side boundary of the building.
iii) The electrical infrastructure of the building, where a car park is located inside the building.
B) Upon completion of the major renovation, the building will have more than 10 parking spaces situated within the side boundary of the building.
C) The cost of installing the required electric vehicle charge point and cable routes for electric vehicle charge points does not exceed 7% of the total cost of the major renovation.
Paragraph 3: If the cost of installing the required electric vehicle charge point and cable routes for electric vehicle charge points exceeds 7% of the total cost of the major renovation:
A) Such a building is exempt from the requirement to install electric vehicle charge points.
B) Cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a minimum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total number of parking spaces, except where the cost of that installation exceeds 7% of the total cost of the major renovation.
Paragraph 4
If such a building has or will have within its side boundary more than 10 parking spaces:
A) If there are or will be any parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
i) The requirements of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those parking spaces.
ii) If the number of parking spaces which are situated in a position other than in a covered car park is insufficient to completely fulfill the requirements of Paragraph S5 of Schedule One, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in the number of parking spaces in the covered car park in order to ensure compliance with the requirements of Paragraph S5B of Schedule One.
B) If all the parking spaces are situated in the covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in a minimum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total number of those parking spaces.
Moving to Requirement S6:
The Erection of New Mixed-Use Buildings and Mixed-Use Buildings Undergoing Major Renovation
Paragraph 1: The requirements of Paragraph S1 apply in respect of the part of the new mixed-use building that contains one or more dwellings and the associated parking spaces that are assigned to those dwellings.
Paragraph 2: The requirements of Paragraph S3 apply in respect of the part of the mixed-use building that is undergoing major renovation and contains one or more dwellings and the associated parking spaces that are assigned to those dwellings.
Paragraph 3: The requirements of Paragraph S4 apply in respect of the part of the new mixed-use building that contains one or more new premises that are not dwellings and the parking spaces that are assigned to those premises.
Paragraph 4: The requirements of Paragraph S5 apply in respect of the part of the mixed-use building that is undergoing major renovation and contains one or more premises that are not dwellings and the parking spaces that are assigned to those premises.
Application of Paragraph S6 of Schedule One
Erection of New Mixed-Use Buildings and Mixed-Use Buildings Undergoing Major RenovationRegulation 44I
The requirements of Paragraph S6 of Schedule One apply to:
The erection of a new mixed-use building, and
A mixed-use building undergoing major renovation, as follows:
Paragraph 2
The requirements of Paragraph S6 of Schedule One apply if, upon completion, such a mixed-use building will have at least one parking space situated within the side boundary of the building.
Paragraph 3
If such a mixed-use building has or will have within its side boundary a covered car park:
Sub-paragraph A) If there are or will be any parking spaces situated in a position other than in a covered car park:
i) The requirements of Paragraph S6 of Schedule One must first be applied in relation to those parking spaces.
ii) If the number of parking spaces which are situated in a position other than in a covered car park is insufficient to completely fulfill the requirements of Paragraph S6 of Schedule One, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in accordance with:
AA) Regulation 44D, Paragraph 4A — in relation to the associated parking spaces for one or more dwellings in a new mixed-use building.
BB) Regulation 44F, Paragraph 6A — in relation to the associated parking spaces for one or more dwellings in a mixed-use building undergoing major renovation.
CC) Regulation 44G, Paragraph 2A — in relation to the parking spaces for one or more premises that are not dwellings in a new mixed-use building.
DD) Regulation 44H, Paragraph 4A — in relation to the parking spaces for one or more premises that are not dwellings in a mixed-use building undergoing major renovation.
Sub-paragraph B) If all the parking spaces are situated in the covered car park, cable routes for electric vehicle charge points must be installed in accordance with:
i) Regulation 44D, Paragraph 4B — in relation to the associated parking spaces for one or more dwellings in a new mixed-use building.
ii) Regulation 44F, Paragraph 6B — in relation to the associated parking spaces for one or more dwellings in a mixed-use building undergoing major renovation.
iii) Regulation 44G, Paragraph 2B — in relation to the parking spaces for one or more new premises that are not dwellings in the new mixed-use building.
iv) Regulation 44H, Paragraph 4B — in relation to the parking spaces for one or more premises that are not dwellings in a mixed-use building undergoing major renovation.
Minimum Standards of an Electric Vehicle Charge Point
Regulation 44J
For the purposes of this Part and Part S of Schedule One:
1) An electric vehicle charge point must meet the following minimum standards:
2) It must be capable of providing a reasonable power output for each parking space for which it is intended to be used.
3) It must be run on a dedicated circuit.
4) It must be compatible with all vehicles which may require access to it.
Interpretation of This Part and Part S of Schedule One
“Cable route” means a safe, unobstructed route from the power supply to the envisaged electric vehicle charge point location — for electrical cabling to be installed in the future.
There’s quite a bit circling around the same information here really, so it will be easy-breezy going through sections now — but that was 15 minutes just reading the blooming legislation.
Anyway, let us start with Section Zero, which tells us where these requirements are applicable — like:
New residential buildings
New non-residential buildings
Buildings undergoing a material change of use
Residential buildings undergoing major renovation
Non-residential buildings undergoing major renovation
Mixed-use buildings undergoing relevant building work
The section also mentions typically associated requirements to think of — like Parts B, K, M, and P.
Section One — Deals with New Residential Buildings
Here, the Secretary of State’s view is simple: the requirements under S1 and Regulation 44D are met as long as you follow the document.
So, we are talking about new residential buildings here with associated parking spaces, and the amount of charging points should be associated with either the number of parking spaces or the number of dwellings those spaces serve.
If there are no parking spaces within the boundary, we do not need to provide a charging point.
If some parking spaces are not required to have charging points, we should prime them for future installation with cable routes.
If the cost of a charge point connection would be over £3,600, or if some of the spaces are in a covered car park, then:
The minimum number of charging points or cable routes is either the number of parking spaces or the number of dwellings that the car park serves.
If there are more than 10 parking spaces, and this is more than the number of dwellings, all additional parking spots should have cable routes installed.
“Associated parking spaces” are just parking spaces within the boundary or under the control of the building owner.
The requirement for a charge point applies when:
The car park is not covered, and
The cost of connection is less than £3,600.
“Connection cost” is the extra cost of the incoming electrical supply per electric vehicle charge point.
To provide this cost, we will need to present two quotes to Building Control during the notice/planning stage.
At least one quote should be from a Distribution Network Operator.
The quote should show:
The total average cost per dwelling, excluding the cost of the charge points, and
Including such costs — the average additional cost per dwelling when charge points are installed for all dwellings with a parking space.
So essentially, the maximum number of electric vehicle charge points that can be installed is until the extra grid connection cost exceeds £3,600 per charge point per dwelling.
Simple: we just talk about the connection with the supplier, and spread that cost across all the different dwellings, trying to provide as much as possible.
Section Two — Deals with Material Change of Use and Major Renovation for Residential Buildings
In this section, both Requirement S2 and S3 are covered, as well as Regulations 44E and 44F.
So let us start with material change of use.
This happens when we either add dwellings or flats, or remove them from the building.
The requirements are similar to the previous section, with the difference that the number of points needed must meet the number of newly created dwellings.
So we cater for the new, as historic and traditional buildings should always be treated delicately when it comes to integration — especially where changes may affect their appearance.
Depending on the type of building and its setting, it may not be required to provide a charging point — or to have it provided at the point approved by the conservation officer.
This requirement applies when undertaking a material change of use for every newly created dwelling, where:
We will not need to upgrade the electrical supply to the building.
The parking is not within a covered car park.
The works do not alter the appearance of a historic or traditional building.
And when at least one of the following works is done:
Parking resurfacing, or
Installing new electrical infrastructure, or
Work to the existing infrastructure, or
Work to the electrical infrastructure of the building when the car park is located within that building.
If the existing infrastructure does not have the capacity, we will need to provide this to Building Control by sending them documentation, like a written statement from a suitable expert or the Distribution Network Operator.
In such a case, we should install as many charge points as we can and make it future-ready with cable routes.
Also, the requirement to install charging points in covered parking spaces does not apply — instead, cable routes should be used.
Major Renovation of Residential Buildings
This will come with its own challenges — including providing charging points where the renovation is major. The works must not solely include upgrading the fire safety of the building fabric.
There needs to be more than 10 parking spaces for use by the dwellings.
Renovation work includes:
Car park resurfacing,
Installation of electrical infrastructure,
Work to the existing infrastructure,
And work to the building infrastructure where the parking is contained within it.
Here also, the number of charging points will need to meet either the number of dwellings the car park serves or the number of associated parking spaces.
Application of Major Renovation Requirements to Residential Buildings
We should think about future-proofing the building — but not at all costs.
The document basically limits us to:
Either the existing power supply (which needs to be sufficient in its present state), or
No more than 7% of the total capital cost of the renovation works.
The more points, the better — so if we can achieve more with cable routes in the budget, we should think of cable routes.
The associated parking space must not be within a covered car park.
The cost should include:
The installation (meaning the point and the route),
Excluding VAT and other costs like land, statutory fees, financing, maintenance, and operational costs.
Covered Car Parks in Buildings Undergoing Material Change of Use or Major Renovations
This theme permeates throughout the document.
If there is no outdoor space for the charging point, then do not install one under cover, but instead install cable routes.
Cable routes should be sufficient to serve:
The number of dwellings, or
All parking spaces, if the number of spaces is less than the number of dwellings.
Section Three — New Buildings Other Than Residential or Mixed-Use Buildings
In this section, we are told that in new buildings (other than residential or mixed-use), with more than 10 parking spaces:
One electric vehicle charge point must be provided for the building.
And for each five remaining parking spaces, we need to provide a cable route.
This applies to parking spaces within the building or within the side boundary.
The preferential position for the charging point and cable route is not within a covered car park.
If all there is is a covered car park, then the requirement for the charging point does not apply,
But the cable route requirement remains.
Section Four — Major Renovation of Buildings Not Residential or Mixed-Use
Similar provisions apply here, but:
There must be at least 10 parking spaces for building users after the renovation works.
The major work constitutes the same scope as previously mentioned.
If these conditions are met:
One charging point must be installed, and
A cable route for each five remaining parking spaces must be provided.
That means:
For 11 spaces, we must install 1 charge point and 2 cable routes.
The limits on application are the same as with renovation in residential buildings:
Cost limited to 7% of the renovation total.
Charging point position must be outside the covered area.
However, the 1 in 5 cable route requirement remains in any circumstance.
Section Five — Mixed-Use Buildings
In this case, for mixed-use buildings, we approach it from the perspective of:
New buildings,
As well as major renovation works.
We mix the requirements of S1 and S4 proportionally to the use.
Simple: for major works, we need to establish the proportion of parking spaces assigned to each use, or treat for the more onerous option — meaning residential.
Similarly, like previously, we think about external installation of charging points and cable routes first, before providing such under cover.
For particular applications, we are referred to the sections that deal with the particular use — so the aspects I’ve already covered.
Section Six — Electric Vehicle Charge Points and Cable Routes
The guidance starts with a reminder of:
Regulation B (Fire Safety),
Regulation P (Electrical Safety),
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, and
The HSE HSR25 — Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 Guidance and Regulations.
Generally, the charging point should be:
Designed and installed to BS EN 61851 — Electric Vehicle Conductive Charging System.
Of minimum 7 kW nominal rated output.
Have a universal untethered socket.
Fitted with an indicator to show charging status.
Be at least Mode 3 — a specialised system running from a dedicated circuit, or equivalent.
Installed in accordance with BS 7671 (Requirements for Electrical Installations) and the IET’s Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation.
We're also reminded of the application of other legislation that may impact the installation, like the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulations 2017.
Cable Routes and Locations for Electric Vehicle Charge Points
These should be positioned conveniently for vehicles with different inlet positions.
We should also consider accessible parking spaces, where at least one such space should have:
A charging point,
A cable route, or
Be prepped for future installation.
The best place for the point would be away from maneuverable areas for wheelchair users and further from dropped curbs.
If the position of the point allows it to serve two spaces, it should be so positioned.
Cable Routes
These should be:
Provided from a permitted electricity supply point to the future connection location.
Designed so that the route, connection, and future point location are:
Well thought out,
Properly labeled and marked,
Prepped for future use.
In addition, it may be prudent to consider auxiliary elements that come with the installation of a charge point.
Where cable routes are installed, these installations should follow a strategy for future charging points in accordance with:
BS 7671, and
The IET Code of Practice for EV Charging Equipment Installation.
The strategy should take into account:
Likely locations of future points.
How the power supply to the charging point will be earthed.
The cable route should be prepared such that:
There is no need for additional building work to lay cables later.
It complies with:
BS 7671:8300 Part 1,
IEC Code of Practice.
Underground cable ducting should follow:
BS EN 61386-24,
Be easy to lay cables in,
Not be damaged during backfilling,
Have draw ropes with termination points accessible in future.
Building fabric penetrations should be sealed with respect to vermin, water, air, gas, and fire.
Color coding should follow NJUG (National Joint Utilities Group) guidelines on positioning and color coding of underground utilities apparatus.
The size, specification, bend radius of all cable ducts should be such as to allow future connections.
Network operators should be informed when the service is modified.
Future locations for the connection should be identified and labeled.
There is even a specification for the label:
The sign must say:
"Dedicated Position for Electric Vehicle Charge Point"
In 25 mm high letters,
Over three lines,
Within a 56 mm by 194 mm sign.
That’s pretty specific.
The sign should be weatherproof, appropriate for the location, and readily visible for the future installer.
The future connection location should have:
Space for the charging point,
Space for installing and maintaining the point,
Sufficient vehicle access, and
If needed, barriers, with enough clearance around.
Typical space requirements are shown in diagrams within the document:
For Floor-Mounted Stations:
At least 220 mm x 450 mm for the station footprint.
At least 1.5 m clearance to the side,
0.5 m to the back.
Maximum height of the station: 1.2 m.
For Wall-Mounted Stations:
Enclosure box: 200 mm x 400 mm.
At least 800 mm clearance to the sides.
700 mm to 1 m free space underneath.
The box itself should be at least 500 mm high.
So this is it, folks — The Approved Document S: Infrastructure for Charging of Electric Vehicles.
Let’s Sum It Up, Section by Section
Section Zero gives a scope of application. These requirements apply to:
New residential and non-residential buildings,
Buildings undergoing a material change of use, and
Both residential and non-residential buildings undergoing major renovations.
Mixed-use buildings are also included where relevant building work is undertaken.
Other applicable regulations to consider include requirements B, K, M, and P.
Section One talks about new residential buildings.
For new residential buildings with associated parking, Requirement S1 and Regulation 44D are met by following the document.
Charging points must be installed based on either the number of parking spaces or the number of dwellings served.
If no parking spaces are present within the property boundary, charging points are not required.
For spaces without charging points, provision should be made for future installation — if the cost is below £3,600.
Proof of connection cost must be shown to Building Control, with quotes, including one from a Distribution Network Operator.
Section Two – Material Change of Use and Major Renovation of Residential Buildings.
For buildings undergoing a material change of use, Requirements S2 and S3 and Regulations 44E and 44F apply — especially when adding or removing dwellings.
Charging points should be installed to meet the number of new dwellings, particularly if no major electrical upgrades are needed.
Historical or traditional buildings may be exempt or require approval from conservation authorities.
Major renovation — for large-scale renovation with over 10 parking spaces:
Charging points are required based on the number of spaces or dwellings served,
Subject to a budgetary limit of 7% of total renovation cost.
Covered parking spaces do not require immediate charging points, but should have cable routes for future installations.
Section Three deals with new non-residential buildings.
For non-residential buildings with more than 10 parking spaces, at least one charging point is required,
Plus a cable route for every additional five spaces.
Cable routes should ideally be installed outside of covered parking areas.
If only covered parking is available, the cable route must still be provided, even if immediate installation of a charging point is not required.
Section Four – Major Renovation of Non-Residential Buildings.
In non-residential buildings with over 10 parking spaces post-renovation:
At least one charging point and
Additional cable routes for every five spaces are required.
The installation cost should not exceed 7% of the renovation’s total capital cost.
As in other cases:
Charging points should preferably be located outside covered parking areas,
But cable routes must be installed regardless.
Section Five deals with mixed-use buildings.
For mixed-use buildings, requirements are a blend of those for residential (S1) and non-residential (S4) structures — proportional to the building's use.
In renovations, the more rigorous residential standard generally applies.
Charging points and cable routes should ideally be installed outside, with internal installations only if necessary.
Section Six – Standards for Electric Vehicle Charging Points and Cable Routes.
The standards mandate compliance with relevant fire safety and electrical safety regulations, like:
BS EN 61851 for charging systems, and
BS 7671 for electrical installations.
Charging points must:
Be at least 7 kW,
Have universal sockets,
And follow appropriate safety codes.
Future cable routes should:
Accommodate easy installation,
Be clearly marked, and
Be compliant with standards for accessible, durable, and safe infrastructure.
Placement considerations should account for:
Accessible parking,
And appropriate spacing for ease of future installation.
In the next episode, we will move to Approved Document T: Toilet Accommodation, a brand-new regulation.
I hope you enjoyed this episode and that the considerations of the Approved Document S: Infrastructure for the Charging of Electric Vehicles are a bit clearer for you now.
If you have any questions, reach out to me on LinkedIn or send me an email — I'm more than happy to help you out in BNA with planning, designing, and managing your projects.
At Bytnar, we deal with planning, designing, and managing your projects, and we are always glad to facilitate a free initial consultation to steer you in the right direction.
Visit www.bytnar.co.uk and reach out to us — whether your question is “Can you help with my project?” or “What should I do?”, we will be able to give you a piece of no-obligation advice.
At Bytnar, we help our clients design and execute their dream homes or investments. If your building is falling apart, we can also help investigate the reasons behind it, and provide you with an appropriate strategy, design, and specifications for the repair.
Thank you again for listening!Please voice your opinions — I’m waiting for you on LinkedIn and I want to hear from you.
See you next week!Bytnar Designs the World Around You — Toodloo! 👋
Piotr Bytnar BEng (Hons) MSc CEng MIStructE
Chartered Structural Engineer who deals with the Architecture of buildings. His Master's Studies led him to an in-depth understanding of risk and contract arrangements in construction as well as specialist knowledge in soil mechanics.
He and his team help homeowners and property developers to design and deliver construction projects reducing waste in time and the cost. He believes that the construction project is an iterative process that can be well managed and it is best managed if all the aspects of the project definition and management are dealt with in-house or coordinated by one organisation. His team works to all stages of RIBA and ISTRUCTE stages of work and enables contractors to deliver projects on-site providing risk evaluations, methodologies for execution of works and temporary works designs.
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