Royal Decree relaxes the sealing of domestic electrical protections

The Royal Decree of August 13, 2026, published in the Belgian Official Gazette of September 15, 2026 (p. 50021), repeals the obligation to seal residual current protection devices placed at the origin of domestic electrical installations. Signed by King Philippe on the proposal of the Minister of Energy, it amends certain provisions of parts 4 and 6 of Book 1 of the Royal Decree of September 8, 2019.

The text falls within the framework of the Royal Decree of September 8, 2019, which establishes Book 1 on low-voltage and very low-voltage electrical installations, Book 2 on high-voltage electrical installations, and Book 3 on installations for the transport and distribution of electrical energy. The new decree, referenced [C − 2026/006432], only affects Book 1, adapting parts 4 and 6 relating to the conformity control of domestic installations.

A relaxed sealing obligation

Subsection 4.2.4.3., b), of Book 1 required that the input terminals of residual current protection devices be made inaccessible by a seal placed by the person in charge of conformity control before commissioning. This requirement, applicable to domestic installations declared compliant by an approved body, is now repealed by Articles 1 to 3 of the decree.

In the event of compliance during a control carried out by an approved body, sealing is no longer required. The control report now certifies that the visiting agent has signed off on the single-line diagrams and position plans, and mentions the deadline for the next control.

Reasons for the repeal

The decision was made in consultation with representatives of installers, approved bodies, and public network operators. The report to the King justifies the repeal based on several findings:

• the limited deterrent nature of sealing as a security measure;
• sealing only applies to domestic electrical installations;
• if the seal is removed, only approved bodies can install a new one, subject to a new control of the installation;
• sealing may only be partially carried out during the conformity control of a significant modification or extension.

The repeal of the sealing obligation in the event of compliance will not decrease the level of safety of domestic electrical installations, the report specifies.

Entry into force and scope

In accordance with Article 4, the decree enters into force on the first day of the second month following its publication in the Belgian Official Gazette, namely November 1, 2026. The Minister of Energy is responsible for its execution.

The text was preceded by the opinion of the Standing Committee on Electricity of December 4, 2025, and a communication to the European Commission on December 17, 2025, in application of Directive 2015/1535/EU. The request for an opinion from the Council of State (No. 79.938/1/V), registered on July 29, 2026, was struck from the roll on the same day, as no opinion was rendered within the thirty-day period.

For electricians and network operators, this reform simplifies compliance checks for domestic installations by removing a formality deemed to have little deterrent effect, while maintaining safety requirements. It streamlines procedures without compromising the protection of individuals against electrical risks.

Source: Royal Decree of August 13, 2026, amending certain provisions of Parts 4 and 6 of Book 1 introduced by the Royal Decree of September 8, 2019, establishing Book 1 on low-voltage and very low-voltage electrical installations, Book 2 on high-voltage electrical installations, and Book 3 on installations for the transport and distribution of electrical energy, Belgian Official Gazette of September 15, 2026, p. 50021 (ref. [C − 2026/006432]).