Innovation drives the electrical industry forward. Amendment 4 arrives this year to align the UK with European standards and the surge in smart ‘prosumer’ tech. We’ve broken down everything Hampshire installers need to know to stay compliant.
The 2026 Timeline: When does it kick in?
Unlike minor “bolt-ons,” Amendment 4 is a significant update.
Early 2026: Pre-orders for the new “Blue/Green” book and training courses began.
April 15th, 2026: The official release is expected on the 15th April 2026
October 1st, 2026: The “Hard Cutoff.” After this date, you must design and certify all work to the new standards. Furthermore, the industry now mandates specific individual competence requirements for all inspection and testing.
Key Technical Changes You Can’t Ignore
Amendment 4 isn’t just “paperwork”, it introduces entirely new chapters and sections to handle the technology homeowners are actually asking for today.
1. Stationary Secondary Batteries (Chapter 57)
With home energy storage exploding in popularity, BS 7671 finally has a dedicated home for batteries. This covers:
Thermal Runaway: New requirements to mitigate fire risks.
Safe Isolation: Specific rules for isolating battery systems during maintenance.
Location: New regulations strictly limit where you can install battery racks in homes, specifically prohibiting high-risk areas like lofts and escape routes.
2. Power over Ethernet – PoE (Section 716)
We are seeing more “Smart Homes” where lighting and security are powered via data cables. Amendment 4 sets the rules for:
Cable Selection: Ensuring data cables can handle the thermal load of carrying power.
Separation: How to safely keep ELV data lines separate from standard 230V circuits.
3. Functional Earthing for ICT (Section 545)
As we move toward high-tech commercial buildings, the way we earth communication networks is changing. This section clarifies the difference between protective earthing (for safety) and functional earthing (for signal integrity).
The “Individual Competence” Shift (EAS 2024)
By October 2026, the industry’s focus shifts from the rulebook to your personal assessment. This is the biggest change you’ll face. Under the updated Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS):
The Rule: You can no longer rely solely on a “Qualified Supervisor” to sign off your work if you are a subcontractor or employee. Every “employed person” undertaking high-risk work,such as Solar PV, EV Charging, or EICRs, must hold their own relevant Level 3 qualification.
What does this mean for you?
If you perform Periodic Inspections (EICRs) and don’t hold a City & Guilds 2391-52 (or equivalent) and have 2 years of experience, you will be unable to certify that work after the October deadline.
How to Future-Proof Your Business
Don’t wait for a “Non-Conformance” notice from your scheme provider. Here is how to stay ahead:
Don’t Wait for the 19th Edition: It’s not coming yet (likely 2028+). Amendment 4 is the law for the foreseeable future.
Get Your Level 3s Now: If you’re doing Solar or EV work, get the specific individual qualifications required before the October rush.
| October 2025 | January 2026 | April 2026 |
| Amendment 4 is coming | Pre-order period starts | Amendment 4 release date |
| We know Amendment 4 is being released in early 2026. | Pre-orders available for 18th Edition Amendment 4 publications and training courses. | Official release date of the latest update to the 18th Edition wiring regulations. |
As always, Hampshire Training and Assessments is here to support our certified businesses through this transition throughout 2026 and beyond, ensuring your team remains fully compliant.
