The IET and BSI have confirmed that Amendment 4 (2026) to BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations) will be published on 15 April 2026.
From the date of publication, Amendment 4 can be implemented immediately. The current standard, BS 7671:2018 + A2:2022 + A3:2024, will remain in force for a six-month transition period, after which it will be withdrawn. Once the transition period ends, Amendment 4 will become the required standard for:
New Installations: All new low-voltage electrical installations.
Alterations & Additions: Any changes or additions to existing electrical systems.
Inspections: Periodic inspection, testing, and EICR reporting.
Key Technical Changes Electricians Should Be Aware Of
Amendment 4 introduces several important updates that will directly affect installation, inspection, and certification practices:
Stationary Secondary Batteries: A new chapter covering battery usage for electrical energy storage and supply to installations.
Functional Earthing & Bonding: New requirements for ICT (Information and Communication Technology) equipment and systems.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Introduction of a dedicated section reflecting the increased use of PoE in modern smart installations.
Medical Locations (Section 710): A major revision including a new schedule of test results for recording the resistance of supplementary protective equipotential bonding conductors.
What Contractors and Property Owners Need to Do
To ensure your property or business remains compliant with the latest safety laws:
Access the Latest Standards: Ensure all work is carried out according to the BS 7671 Amendment 4 version.
Review Procedures: Update design, installation, and inspection procedures to include the new battery and PoE sections.
Update Documentation: Ensure testing and certification paperwork reflects the revised requirements.
Professional Judgement: Apply the new standards during EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Reports) to maintain accurate safety ratings.
Immediate Adoption Available
Amendment 4 can be adopted immediately from 15 April 2026. At Urgent Electrical Services Limited, we are already familiarizing our team with these changes to ensure continued compliance with scheme rules and industry best practices.
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