What Electricians in Hampshire Should Do Now
Rumours vs Reality Across the Electrical Trade
There’s a growing belief in Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, and industry forums that a full BS 7671 19th Edition is set for 2026. Some sparkies are delaying their 18th Edition training because of it.
After reviewing guidance from IET and BSI and engaging with awarding partners, the reality is clear:
There is no official confirmation of a 19th Edition arriving in 2026.
What is confirmed:
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The next change will be Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018
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Release expected in 2026
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A full rewrite of the Wiring Regulations is expected no earlier than 2027/28, possibly later, closer to 2030
Hampshire electricians holding off on training are waiting for something that simply isn’t coming soon.
The Commercial Risk of Staying on 17th Edition
Electricians still on the 17th Edition will struggle to stay competitive across Hampshire, especially with high-demand work growing in Southampton, Portsmouth, Fareham, Winchester, Basingstoke and Eastleigh.
Potential consequences include:
- Being excluded from new contract frameworks
- Losing higher-value EV charger, solar PV or battery storage installation jobs
- Failing compliance audits for social housing and FM clients
- Less eligibility for inspection and testing work under current standards
Delaying for years is not commercially viable. There’s real money lost every month you remain behind.
The Smart Move: Upgrade Now → Top-Up Later
Step 1: Get BS 7671 18th Edition Certified Immediately
This keeps you compliant, employable and ready for all domestic, commercial and industrial work.
Step 2: Short Upgrade to Amendment 4 in 2026
A quick pathway delivered by SERT as soon as the update is published. This strategy means you remain contract-ready with zero downtime when the regulations change.
What Amendment 4 Is Likely to Include
Industry guidance indicates changes to:
- Battery storage systems and LV generation
- Functional earthing and ICT bonding
- PoE / Extra-Low-Voltage DC systems
- Updated inspection and testing requirements
- Enhanced safety, isolation and emergency procedures
- Hybrid and smart energy systems
These reflect the shift towards renewable technology and smart home electrical integration, exactly where the work is heading in the South-East.
The Benefits of Acting Now
Electricians across Hampshire choosing the “18th Edition now + Amendment 4 later” pathway will:
- Meet all current contract requirements
- Secure access to fast-growing renewables work
- Maximise earning potential in a competitive market
- Avoid being caught non-compliant when Amendment 4 takes effect
Training now is the safest commercial hedge.
Why Hampshire Electricians Choose SERT
- Evening, online and centre-based delivery options
- Local support from an accredited electrical training provider
- Amendment 4 upgrade guaranteed when released
- Optional upskills aligned to local employer demand:
- EV Charging Installation
- Solar PV and Battery Storage
- Inspection and Testing
SERT is known for supporting contractors, QSs, maintenance electricians and installers across Hampshire to stay ahead of regulatory and market demand.
Bottom Line
If you are still on the 17th Edition and hoping the 19th Edition is just around the corner, you’re putting years of valuable work at risk.
Secure compliance now, not in 2027/28.
- Get your BS 7671 18th Edition with SERT
- Take the short Amendment 4 upgrade in 2026
- Stay compliant, employable and future-ready across the South-East
Stay Ahead of the Change, Join SERT’s 2026 Amendment 4 Priority List
- Priority access to the updated course
- Early-bird pricing
- Employer package options
- Pre-release learning resources
Contact SERT today to secure your place and keep ahead of BS 7671 changes in Hampshire.