Low-voltage • Design • Inspection

NEN 1010

Standard covering design, construction and initial inspection of low-voltage installations. Focus: protection against electric shock, overload/short-circuit and fire, with proper documentation at handover.

Approach: inspections performed in accordance with NEN 1010 • VCA • Seal rights (Liander)

What’s current?

  • Current technical edition for parts 1–7: NEN 1010:2020+C1:2024.
  • NEN 1010-8:2026 is a separate supplementary publication on functional aspects and energy efficiency; it does not replace NEN 1010:2020+C1:2024.
  • Bbl: for new construction, the Dutch Environment Regulation currently designates NEN 1010:2015+C2:2016+A1:2020; an older designated edition may apply to existing buildings. Contract requirements may differ, so the assessment basis is recorded for each assignment.
  • NPR 5310:2024 provides practical guidance for NEN 1010, including earthing and bonding.
  • AC EV charging points: each connection point needs suitable residual-current protection rated at no more than 30 mA and DC fault-current protection (type B or type A/F with a 6 mA RDC-DD). Built-in DC detection alone does not replace the 30 mA residual-current protection; fully integrated protection must demonstrably meet the applicable requirements.
  • PV installations: a 30 mA or type-B RCD is not a universal requirement; selection depends on factors including the earthing system, inverter and manufacturer instructions under the applicable standard edition.

Design & installation

Select cables/conduits, protective devices, voltage drop and switchgear to suit use and environment.

  • Calculate and assess voltage drop for the project under the applicable standard edition, installation and use.
  • Size conductors for permissible current, ambient temperature and installation method.
  • Clear schematics, circuit schedules and labelling.

When does NEN 1010 apply in practice?

  • For new installations, extensions, distribution board replacement, additional circuits, EV chargers, PV installations and major alterations.
  • Commissioning checks cover circuit layout, protective devices, earthing/bonding, conductor sizing, voltage drop, disconnection conditions and labelling.
  • A handover file shows what was designed, installed, measured and what remains as an advisory item.
  • NEN 1010 concerns electrical design, installation and initial inspection. NEN 3140 is relevant, where applicable, for safe operation, work activities and periodic inspection.

Protection & safety

  • Earthing and appropriate RCD/RCBO selection (including type A, F or B, with DC fault-current detection where applicable).
  • Special locations (wet areas), SELV/PELV where required, fire-rated penetrations.
  • Prove selectivity and disconnection times (loop impedance/trip time).

Testing & handover

Visual checks and measurements/tests (insulation, PE continuity, earth resistance, RCD test, loop impedance) with a handover dossier.