Quick answer
Two changes in October 2026 affect anyone who commissions or relies on an EICR.
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| 1 October 2026 | Individual competence. Every inspector carrying out periodic inspection and testing must personally meet the new requirements. |
| 15 October 2026 | BS 7671 Amendment 4 becomes the current wiring standard. |
From firm-level to individual competence
Until now, the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) that registration schemes assess against looked mainly at the competence of the firm. From 1 October 2026 it moves to individual competence. Every electrician carrying out periodic inspection and testing must meet three requirements in their own right:
- A Level 3 qualification in inspection and testing, such as City & Guilds 2391-51 or 2391-52.
- Two years' experience, with documented evidence of periodic inspection and testing work.
- Ongoing CPD, with evidence of continuing professional development.
What it means for landlords and agents
If you are a landlord or letting agent, check that whoever tests your properties meets these requirements. A report from an inspector who doesn't may not stand up if a council, insurer or tenant ever questions it. The 2020 landlord regulations already require the inspection to be carried out by a qualified and competent person. The EAS change makes it clearer what that means in practice.
Questions to ask before you book:
- Will the person who visits be the person who signs the report?
- What inspection and testing qualification do they hold?
- Is the work sub-contracted?
- Will every circuit be tested, or a sample?
BS 7671 Amendment 4
BS 7671 is the national standard for electrical installations, often called the 18th Edition wiring regulations. Amendments update it as technology and safety thinking move on. From 15 October 2026, inspections are carried out against Amendment 4. Our 18th Edition certificate guide explains how BS 7671 relates to EICRs.
Do existing EICRs still count?
A satisfactory EICR stays valid until the next inspection date shown on it, unless the installation is altered or damaged. A new amendment doesn't cancel existing reports. However, an installation that met an older edition may record new C3 observations, or occasionally C2s, when it is next inspected against the current standard.
How we meet the new requirements
Our EICRs are carried out by Westgate's own Level 3 qualified electricians, with no sub-contracting, so the person who inspects your property is the person who signs the report. See about us for our qualifications and insurance.