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4 Ways to Ensure Your Business Passes an Electrical Inspection in 2025
Electrical safety is a critical concern for every commercial business in London. With regulations tightening and insurers demanding proof of compliance, passing your next electrical test is essential for protecting your business, staff, and reputation. Here are four key strategies to help your business pass its 2025 electrical test, with a focus on the latest standards and requirements in the UK—including important considerations like electrical inspection cost.
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Introduction
BS 7671 is the UK’s national standard for designing, installing and verifying electrical installations. It is not statutory law, but following it is widely recognised as proof of compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations.
Amendment 4 is a fully consolidated update published on 15 April 2026. It combines the original 18th Edition of BS 7671 and Amendments 1–3 into one document. The IET and BSI confirm that the new chapter on stationary secondary batteries and sections on functional earthing for ICT systems and power over Ethernet (PoE) reflect the growing complexity of modern electrical installations. The amendment also includes a major revision of Section 710 (medical locations) and introduces a schedule of test results for supplementary protective equipotential bonding.
For London’s commercial landlords and facilities managers, understanding these changes is essential to maintaining safe, compliant buildings and avoiding costly rework. Let’s break down the details.
What Is BS 7671 and Why Does It Matter?
BS 7671, commonly called the IET Wiring Regulations, sets out the standards for electrical installations in the UK. Although the regulations are not legislation, they underpin safe electrical design and are widely used to demonstrate compliance with health and safety laws, notably the Electricity at Work Regulations.
Key points to remember:
National standard for new work and alterations: The IET and BSI emphasise that BS 7671 forms the UK national standard for all new low‑voltage installations, additions and alterations.
Periodic inspections: BS 7671 also guides periodic inspection and testing of existing installations, such as Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs).
Professional credibility: Using a contractor registered with bodies like the NICEIC ensures that installations meet BS 7671 and satisfy insurers and local authorities, as highlighted in our earlier article on passing electrical inspections.
In short, while BS 7671 isn’t law, it remains the de facto benchmark for safe and legally compliant electrical work in the UK.
Key Changes Introduced in Amendment 4
The Orange Book consolidates previous amendments and introduces new sections that reflect emerging technologies and safety considerations. Here are the most significant changes:
Stationary Secondary Batteries for Electrical Energy Storage – A dedicated chapter now covers stationary secondary batteries used to store and supply electricity to installations. This reflects the rise of on‑site battery storage to support renewable energy, emergency power and load management.
Functional Earthing and Equipotential Bonding for ICT Systems – A new section sets requirements for the earthing and bonding of information and communication technology equipment. As networks carry both power and data, correct earthing protects sensitive electronics and reduces interference.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) – Amendment 4 adds a dedicated section on PoE, recognising the wider use of PoE for lighting, data and building services. It addresses current limits, cable selection and safety considerations for higher power levels.
Revised Section 710 – Medical Locations – The section covering medical locations is comprehensively updated. It includes improved guidance on testing and documentation and introduces a schedule for recording supplementary protective bonding resistance.
Consolidated Format and Test Schedules – The Orange Book brings the original 18th Edition and Amendments 1–3 into one document. This consolidation removes the need to cross‑reference multiple publications and provides consistent test schedules for inspectors.
No New EV Charging Requirements – Amendment 4 does not introduce additional requirements for electric‑vehicle (EV) charging; most EV provisions were included in Amendment 1:2020. However, the new battery storage chapter may influence EV charger installations that integrate on‑site storage.
These changes reflect trends towards smarter, energy‑resilient buildings. Modern premises increasingly rely on ICT networks, PoE lighting, battery storage and integrated renewable energy – all of which require clear standards.
When Does Amendment 4 Become Effective?
The IET confirms that Amendment 4 is published on 15 April 2026 and can be used immediately. The previous edition (BS 7671:2018 + A2:2022 + A3:2024) will be withdrawn six months later, after which Amendment 4 becomes the primary reference.
For property owners and contractors, this means:
April–October 2026 – Transition Period: During the six‑month transition you may work to either the outgoing edition or the Orange Book. However, new installations and significant alterations should follow Amendment 4 wherever possible to avoid rework when the old edition is withdrawn.
After October 2026: Inspectors will assess installations against the Orange Book. Keeping documentation and design records up to date will help demonstrate compliance during EICRs.
What Does Amendment 4 Mean for Your Business or Property?
If you manage commercial or residential property in London, here’s what the Orange Book’s changes mean in practice:
Battery Storage Installations – On‑site battery systems (e.g., for solar PV or peak‑shaving) will need to meet the new chapter’s requirements for installation, protection and maintenance. Engaging a qualified electrician familiar with these standards is crucial.
ICT and PoE – Buildings with extensive ICT infrastructure (offices, retail stores, hospitality venues) should ensure that new cabling and devices follow the earthing and PoE rules. This is particularly important for smart lighting and integrated building management systems.
Medical and Care Facilities – Healthcare settings in London must review the revised Section 710. The update covers testing regimes and documentation for medical locations, improving patient safety.
Existing Installations – The Electrical4Less guidance notes that existing installations designed to earlier editions are not automatically non‑compliant; compliance is assessed against the standards in force at the time of installation with professional judgement during inspections. However, any additions or alterations from April 2026 must meet the new requirements.
Periodic Testing – EICRs performed after the withdrawal of the previous edition will reference Amendment 4. Inspectors will use the new test schedules and may highlight issues related to PoE or battery storage even in older systems.
In summary, the Orange Book does not invalidate your existing wiring but sets a higher bar for future work and encourages the adoption of modern technologies safely.
Preparing for Compliance
Proactive planning can help your business remain compliant and avoid disruptions. Consider the following steps:
Schedule an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) with a NICEIC‑Approved Contractor. Regular EICRs identify issues and ensure your installation meets the latest standards. Our team of NICEIC‑approved electricians can perform EICRs across London.
Review Planned Upgrades. If you’re planning to install battery storage, smart lighting or PoE‑powered devices, design them to the Orange Book requirements from the outset. This reduces the risk of remedial work after October 2026.
Document All Work. Maintain organised records of EICRs, certificates and upgrade details. Clear documentation demonstrates diligence and speeds up future inspections – a best practice we highlighted in our guide to passing electrical inspections.
Train Your Team. Educate facilities managers and relevant staff about the new requirements, particularly for PoE and battery storage installations. Encouraging a safety‑conscious culture ensures issues are reported early.
Plan Budgets and Timelines. Some upgrades (e.g., adding battery storage or upgrading consumer units) may require capital investment. Budget ahead to spread costs and schedule work before the industry’s busy periods.
If you manage buildings in areas such as Mayfair, Shoreditch, Chigwell or Woodford, our London‑based electricians can advise on the best approach for your premises. Feel free to contact us for a free consultation.
Why Keeping Up with Wiring Regulations Matters
Staying current with BS 7671 isn’t just a paperwork exercise. It delivers tangible benefits:
Safety and Compliance: Following BS 7671 provides strong evidence that your electrical installation meets the Electricity at Work Regulations. This protects employees, tenants and visitors.
Insurance and Legal Protection: Insurers often require evidence of compliance with the latest wiring regulations. Failure to update could invalidate coverage or lead to liability in the event of an incident.
Future‑Proofing: The Orange Book reflects the UK’s transition to low‑carbon energy and digital infrastructure. Implementing its requirements prepares your property for technologies such as stationary batteries, electric vehicles and smart systems.
Industry Reputation: Demonstrating adherence to current standards enhances trust with clients, tenants and regulators. As the IET notes, Amendment 4 supports safe, modern electrical infrastructure – essential for delivering the electrification needed to meet net‑zero goals.
Outbound Resources
If you’d like to read more about Amendment 4 and the IET Wiring Regulations, the following resources provide authoritative guidance:
IET Press Release: The Institution of Engineering and Technology’s official announcement summarises the key changes, including the new chapters and implementation timeline.
Electrical4Less Guide: A detailed FAQ explains what Amendment 4 is, when it’s published, why it matters, and how existing installations are affected.
Government Electrical Safety Guidance: The Health and Safety Executive offers comprehensive guidance on workplace electrical safety and how BS 7671 relates to the Electricity at Work Regulations.
Conclusion
Amendment 4 of BS 7671 represents the next step in the evolution of the UK’s wiring regulations. Published on 15 April 2026 and fully in force after October 2026, the Orange Book brings all prior amendments together and addresses modern technologies like battery storage and power‑over‑Ethernet.
For London businesses and property owners, the key is to plan ahead: schedule EICRs, design new installations to the updated standards, and educate your team. Remember that existing installations aren’t automatically unsafe, but new work must comply with the Orange Book.
If you’re unsure what the changes mean for your premises or would like to book an inspection, our team at Precision Electrical is here to help. We cover central and greater London – including Mayfair, East London, Chigwell, Woodford and the surrounding areas – and we’d be delighted to ensure your property is ready for the future.