BS 7671 Amendment 4 (2026): Key Changes to the IET Wiring Regulations Explained

We’re pleased to share that EAL has supported The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and BSI in Amendment 4 (2026) to the standard Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671:2018) (18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), which was signed off today, Thursday 15 January 2026. 

Significant changes include: 

• A new chapter on Stationary Secondary Batteries where the purpose is for electrical storage and supply of electrical installations  
• A new section on Functional earthing and functional equipotential bonding for information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and systems  
• A new section on Power over Ethernet (PoE) 
• A major revision of Section 710 Medical Locations and the inclusion of a schedule of test results for recording the resistance of supplementary protective equipotential bonding conductors. 

Amendment 4 can be implemented immediately when published on 15 April 2026 and the previous version, BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024, will be withdrawn six months later. 

This essential update to the IET Wiring Regulations will form the UK national standard for: 

• All new low voltage electrical installations 
• Additions and alterations to existing installations 
• Periodic inspection and testing of existing installations. 

The IET, BSI, and EAL encourage all electrical professionals to ensure they become familiar with the changes when they are published. 

EAL plans to launch a replacement Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 qualification to Amendment 4 in April 2026.  The current qualification will close for registration on 31 July 2026 and close for certifications on 31 December 2026.  The onscreen exam will be available until October 15th, 2026.  We will shortly be communicating further on how this update affects our qualifications.    

Kevin Sparrow, Senior Industry Manager for Building Services Engineering (BSE) at EAL commented: “Amendment 4 is an important step, particularly in embracing new technology. Contractors are encouraged to undertake CPD to stay up to date to support continued competence in their role”.  

BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 is available for pre-order below. You can also learn more about the IET’s guidance and training packages here. 

Pre-order Amendment 4:2026 now