For an electrical inspection compliant with the AREI (General Regulations on Electrical Installations), having a complete and accurate electrical file is essential. In this article, we focus on the mandatory components for residential installations.
Different types of electrical files
Before going into detail, it’s important to distinguish between:
- residential buildings
- public spaces
- industrial facilities
This article focuses on residential installations.
Mandatory diagrams: a common reason for failure
In many failed inspection reports, one of the following diagrams is missing:
- single-line diagram
- layout (position) diagram
Missing just one of these is enough to fail the inspection.
What is a single-line diagram?
A single-line diagram is a schematic representation of the entire electrical installation. All circuits are shown using lines and symbols.
Each line represents a cable connection, allowing you to quickly understand how the installation is structured.
What can you read from it?
- which circuit a component belongs to
- the logical structure of the installation
- installed protections
- switching arrangements
Each circuit is assigned a letter (A, B, C, …), and each component a number. For example, a socket on the third branch of circuit B is labeled B3.
What is a Situation diagram?
The situation diagram complements the single-line diagram. It shows the physical location of all electrical components on a floor plan.
This includes:
- sockets
- switches
- lighting points
- junction boxes
- distribution boards
Each component carries the same identification as in the single-line diagram (e.g. B3), ensuring consistency.
Commonly forgotten elements
In addition to standard components, you must also indicate:
- meter location
- distribution boards
- earthing disconnector
These are often overlooked and can lead to inspection remarks.
Interaction between both diagrams
The single-line and layout diagrams complement each other and allow a complete and clear understanding of the installation.
Additional diagrams
In more complex installations (e.g. multiple distribution boards), extra diagrams may be required.
Cable routing diagram
Shows how cables run through the building or between buildings.
Block diagram
Represents these connections vertically (per floor).
Practical approach using software
Using software like Schematicals, much of this work can be automated.
You can:
- automatically generate cable routing and block diagrams
- visualize connections between boards
- easily add details
To generate cable routing automatically, additional data is needed:
- in which building the board is located
- on which floor it is installed
Conclusion
A complete electrical file is essential for a safe and compliant installation.
By at least providing a correct single-line diagram and layout diagram, you avoid inspection issues and ensure clear documentation of your installation.