While PAT testing isn’t a legal requirement in the UK, it’s crucial to know that regulations stress the importance of keeping electrical appliances safe. Getting PAT testing done is wise to reduce risks and ensure safety standards are met.
What is PAT testing
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the process of making sure that your portable appliances like your microwave and kettle to ensure they are safe to use.
PAT testing consists of a series of visual inspections and electrical tests to assess potential hazards. This includes checking for any damage that could lead to electrical faults such as loose connections and wear & tear.
It’s advisable to have a qualified electrician conduct a PAT test, although the law allows any competent person to do so.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement for landlords
PAT testing isn’t a legal requirement for landlords unless it’s required as part of a licence condition but it’s highly recommended.
Landlords are required to ensure all the electrical appliances provided in the rental property are safe to use and one effective way to do this is PAT testing.
PAT testing reduces the risk of electrical accidents such as electric shock and fires this is important for landlords as if you’re tenant is harmed you could be liable but carrying out a PAT test and having a proven record of this shows that you took reasonable steps to ensure the tenant’s safety.
What needs to be PAT tested
If you have decided to have a PAT test the next thing you need to know is how many “units” you need testing.
To get a quote for PAT testing, you will asked how many units you need to be tested. Units are simply how an item that needs testing.
Items that need testing are any items which run off of the mains supply, so your kettle is plugged into a socket that therefore runs off the mains. The key thing to make sure is that the appliance is portable and runs off the mains.
How often should PAT testing be done
How often PAT testing should be done depends on the environment, as certain environments cause the appliances to be moved more often meaning more chance of damage.
| Environment | Risk Level | Recommended Frequency |
| Offices and shops | Low risk | Test every 4 years |
| Schools | Low to medium risk | Test every 1-2 years |
| Public use buildings | Medium risk | Test every year |
| Industrial buildings | Medium to high risk | Test every 6 months to a year |
| Building sites | High Risk | Test every 3 months |
How often should PAT testing be done for landlords
There are no guidelines surrounding PAT testing frequency for landlords however it’s recommended to be carried out every year or at the start of a new tenancy.
How much does PAT testing cost
The cost of PAT testing depends on the number of units to be tested. Some companies charge per item, while here at Abbey Electrical we charge per hour.
Get in contact
If you want to arrange a PAT test feel free to contact us.
We’re a Swindon-based company and have been completing electrical work since 2005.