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BS 7671:2018 + A2:2022 + A3:2024, will remain in force for a six-month transition period, after which it will be withdrawn.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:
All new low-voltage electrical installations
Alterations and additions to existing installations
Periodic inspection, testing, and EICR reporting
Amendment 4 introduces several important updates that will directly affect installation, inspection, and certification practices:
New chapter covering stationary secondary batteries, specifically where batteries are used for electrical energy storage and supply to installations
New requirements for functional earthing and functional equipotential bonding for information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and systems
Introduction of a dedicated section on Power over Ethernet (PoE), reflecting the increased use of PoE in modern installations
Major revision of Section 710 (Medical Locations), including a new schedule of test results for recording the resistance of supplementary protective equipotential bonding conductors
Ensure access to the latest version of BS 7671, including Amendment 4
Review design, installation, and inspection procedures affected by the new sections
Update testing and certification documentation where required
Apply professional judgement in line with the revised requirements, particularly during EICRs
Amendment 4 can be adopted immediately from 15 April 2026. Contractors are advised to familiarise themselves with the changes early to ensure continued compliance with scheme rules and best practice.
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