Standard · Updated June 2026

NF C 15-100 in English:
the 12 key rules of the French electrical standard

The official French electrical standard NF C 15-100, explained in plain English — outlets per room, dedicated circuits, bathroom safety zones, switchboard requirements and CONSUEL certification. The official text is published by AFNOR (in French only); this guide summarizes the essential rules you need to plan a compliant installation in France.

Reading time: 10 min·Updated: June 2026

What is the NF C 15-100 standard?

The NF C 15-100 (full title: "Installations électriques à basse tension") is the French national standard published by AFNOR that governs all low-voltage electrical installations in residential buildings. It is the French equivalent of BS 7671 (UK Wiring Regulations) or the NEC (US National Electrical Code).

This standard is mandatory for:

  • All new residential construction
  • Complete electrical renovations
  • CONSUEL certification (required before energizing)
  • Signing a new electricity supply contract with Enedis

Required circuits (NF C 15-100)

The standard requires that high-consumption appliances have their own dedicated circuit with an appropriate cable cross-section and circuit breaker.

Lighting

1.5 mm²10A

At least 1 circuit per 40 m². Mandatory separate circuit for main living area.

Power outlets

2.5 mm²16A

At least 1 circuit per 40 m². Maximum 8 sockets per circuit.

Cooker / hob

6 mm²32A

Dedicated circuit mandatory for electric cooker or hob.

Washing machine

2.5 mm²20A

Dedicated circuit for each major appliance (washer, dryer, dishwasher).

Electric water heater

2.5 mm²20A

Dedicated circuit mandatory if electric water heater is installed.

Freezer / fridge

2.5 mm²16A

Dedicated circuit recommended to prevent loss from a tripped breaker.

Frequently asked questions

What is the NF C 15-100 standard?
The NF C 15-100 is the French national standard (published by AFNOR) governing all low-voltage electrical installations in residential buildings. It covers new construction, complete renovations, and is mandatory for CONSUEL certification before energizing a new installation.
Does NF C 15-100 apply to apartments?
Yes. NF C 15-100 applies to all residential electrical installations in France — whether house, apartment, or studio. The requirements may vary slightly by surface area but the standard is universal.
How many outlets per room does NF C 15-100 require?
The standard sets minimums per room: 3 outlets in each bedroom, 5 in the living room (up to 28 m²) then +1 per 4 m², 6 in the kitchen including 4 above the worktop, 1 in hallways over 4 m², 1 in any other room (WC, entryway). All outlets must be 16A standard with 2P+T (live, neutral, earth).
How many circuits must a house have?
For a typical 3-bedroom house: at minimum 2 lighting circuits, 3-4 power outlet circuits, 1 cooker circuit, 1 washing machine circuit, 1 freezer circuit, 1 dishwasher circuit, 1 water heater circuit — around 10-14 circuits total. Plan 30 % spare capacity in the consumer unit for future additions.
What are the bathroom zones under NF C 15-100?
The standard defines 4 zones around a bath or shower: Zone 0 (inside the bath, only 12V SELV allowed), Zone 1 (above the bath up to 2.25 m, only IPX5 fixtures), Zone 2 (60 cm around the bath, IP44+ with 30 mA RCD), Zone 3 (the rest of the room, IP44 outlets allowed with 30 mA RCD). Outlets and switches are forbidden in Zones 0, 1, and 2.
Is NF C 15-100 mandatory for a renovation?
For a complete renovation (total rewiring), yes — compliance is required for CONSUEL certification. For partial renovations (e.g. adding one circuit), it is strongly recommended but not always enforced. An electrician can advise on the required scope.
What is CONSUEL certification?
CONSUEL (Comité National pour la Sécurité des Usagers de l'Electricité) is the French body that certifies electrical installations before they can be energized. For new installations or complete renovations, a CONSUEL inspection is mandatory before Enedis will connect the supply. The single-line diagram (schéma unifilaire) of your consumer unit is part of the file.
What symbols are required on an NF C 15-100 plan?
Every fixed device must use a standardized symbol: outlet symbol (2P+T circle), dedicated 20A and 32A circuits, light point symbol, 3-way switch, RJ45 data outlet, smoke detector (DAAF), VMC ventilation, EV charging station (IRVE). See our reference page on electrical symbols for the full library of 370+ standardized symbols.

Related guides

Electrical plan software: 2026 comparison

Planelico vs ArchiFacile, Kozikaza, Sweet Home 3D, Planner 5D.

How to create a house electrical plan

Step-by-step guide, NF C 15-100 compliance.

The standard electrical symbols

All NF C 15-100 symbols explained.

Create your electrical plan now

Planelico lets you create a professional electrical plan in minutes. Free, no installation.

Start for free →Try without an account