Navigating commercial electrical compliance can be complex. Here is our plain-English, non-copyrighted guide explaining statutory requirements, design implications, and standard intervals for commercial building operators.
The definitive standard for all electrical installations in the UK. Explains EICR frequencies, consumer units, and safe design rules.
Read full breakdown →Requirements for fire detection and alert systems. Outlines grades, testing, logbook rules, and landlord obligations.
Read full breakdown →Standards ensuring buildings have enough emergency exit lighting in power outages. Details monthly, annual, and 3-hour tests.
Read full breakdown →BS 7671 (The IET Wiring Regulations) is the UK standard for low-voltage electrical installations. The current requirements applied on this site are the 18th Edition, Amendment 3:2024.
BS 7671 is not itself legislation, but it is widely used to demonstrate good engineering practice and support duties under legislation such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Building Regulations. The inspection interval and competence required depend on the premises, installation, risk and applicable legal duties.
BS 5839 rules apply to the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection systems. It splits between Part 1 (Commercial Buildings) and Part 6 (Domestic and Residential Letting Properties).
The responsible person must manage fire precautions under applicable fire-safety law. BS 5839-1 provides recommendations for system testing, servicing, records and maintenance; the risk assessment and system design determine what applies at a particular premises.
BS 5266 outlines rules to ensure building safety managers design and maintain emergency illumination when main lighting fails. This ensures exit paths, escape signs, fire panels, and consumer boards remain illuminated.
Emergency-lighting duties arise from the building use, fire-risk assessment and applicable fire-safety and workplace law. BS 5266-1 provides recommendations for design, testing and records.
Unlike standard guidance, the EAWR is statutory legislation. Regulation 4(2) places an absolute duty on employers to ensure all electrical systems are maintained in a safe state to prevent injury or shock risk.
Inspection, testing, maintenance and good records can help a dutyholder demonstrate that electrical risks are being managed, but the appropriate controls must follow the actual risk and legal duty.
Ensure your commercial or letting asset meets BS 7671, BS 5839, and BS 5266. We serve London and the Home Counties.
Book Online Survey →