The IET Code of Practice for EV Charging
The IET Code of Practice sits alongside BS 7671 for EV work, filling in the practical detail Section 722 doesn't spell out.
BS 7671 Section 722 sets the regulatory requirements for EV charging, but it doesn't cover everything an installer needs to plan a job. The IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation is the reference that fills that gap.
This guide explains what the Code of Practice adds — site assessment, earthing solutions, load management, and installation practicalities — and how it works with the regulations rather than replacing them.
Key takeaways
- The Code of Practice is guidance that supports BS 7671, not a legal standard in itself.
- It covers site assessment, equipment selection, earthing solutions and load management in practical depth.
- It expands on the PME/open-PEN options that Section 722 requires but doesn't detail.
- It is the go-to reference for smart charging, load balancing and multi-point installations.
- Following it demonstrates you have installed to recognised best practice.
How it relates to BS 7671
BS 7671 tells you what must be achieved; the Code of Practice tells you how to achieve it well. Section 722 requires DC fault protection and open-PEN protection, for example, but the Code of Practice works through the practical ways of delivering each and when to choose which.
Think of it as the detailed installer's handbook that sits on top of the regulations.
Site assessment and earthing
The Code of Practice puts a lot of weight on the initial site assessment — supply capacity, earthing arrangement, cable routes, and the location of the charge point relative to the building and the parking space.
It sets out the earthing options for PME supplies in depth: open-PEN protection devices, and the TT earth electrode approach, including the pitfalls of each and how to verify them.
Assess before you quote
The earthing decision and supply capacity are the two things that change the price most — settle them at the assessment, not on the day.
Load management and smart charging
As more homes add chargers, load management becomes central. The Code of Practice covers current-limiting devices, load balancing across multiple points, and how smart charging interacts with the installation.
For commercial and multi-point installations it is the reference that keeps the whole scheme within the available supply.
Using it on the job
In practice, use the Code of Practice at the design and assessment stage and BS 7671 for the compliance requirements and testing. Together they cover the full job from survey to certificate.
Certification is unchanged — an EIC for the circuit and a charge point commissioning certificate for the unit.
Certify to match the practice
TradePlanr's EV charge point certificate captures the commissioning checks the Code of Practice expects, ready to sign on site.
Frequently asked questions
Is the IET Code of Practice mandatory?
It is guidance rather than a legal standard. BS 7671 carries the regulatory weight, but following the Code of Practice demonstrates recognised best practice and is often expected on EV work.
Do I need it if I have BS 7671?
BS 7671 tells you the requirements; the Code of Practice gives the practical detail on how to meet them for EV specifically — site assessment, earthing options and load management. Most EV installers use both.
Does it cover commercial charging?
Yes. It covers domestic and commercial installations, including multi-point sites, load balancing and the supply management those need.
From guidance to action
Related guides
EV Charger Installation: A Practical Guide
Surveying, cable sizing, earthing and certifying a domestic EV charge point installation.
Section 722: EV Charging Requirements
The Section 722 rules for EV charge points — RCD types, PEN fault protection and earthing arrangements.
Earthing Systems: TN-S, TN-C-S and TT Explained
How TN-S, TN-C-S (PME) and TT earthing arrangements work, and how to identify each on site.
