PAT Testing (PAT)
DocumentationPortable Appliance Testing - inspecting electrical appliances in rental properties for safety, recommended though not strictly legally required for landlords
PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is the inspection of portable electrical appliances for safety, including kettles, washing machines, and televisions. While not strictly legally required for landlords, PAT testing demonstrates due diligence under the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 and general duty of care. Annual testing is recommended for furnished properties, costing approximately GBP1-3 per item.
What is PAT Testing?
PAT testing involves:
- Visual inspection of appliances
- Electrical safety tests
- Testing leads and plugs
- Recording results
- Labelling tested items
What Gets Tested
Portable appliances include:
- Kettles and toasters
- Washing machines
- Microwaves
- Table lamps
- Vacuum cleaners
- Televisions
- Computer equipment
Not included:
- Fixed installations (covered by EICR)
- Built-in ovens
- Hardwired equipment
Legal Position
The law:
- No specific legal requirement for PAT testing
- BUT landlords must ensure electrical equipment is safe
- Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
- General duty of care to tenants
Best practice:
- Annual PAT testing for furnished properties
- Records demonstrate due diligence
- Insurance may require it
- Protects against liability
When PAT Testing is Important
Higher risk situations:
- Furnished properties (landlord's appliances)
- HMOs with shared appliances
- Properties with older equipment
- High-turnover short-term lets
PAT Testing Process
- Visual inspection - Damage, wear, exposed wires
- Earth continuity test - Earth connection intact
- Insulation resistance test - No current leakage
- Polarity check - Wiring correct
- Labelling - Pass/fail sticker applied
- Recording - Results documented
Cost and Frequency
- Typically £1-3 per item
- Annual testing recommended
- After any repairs
- When equipment changes
For Letting Agents
PAT testing considerations:
- Include in furnished property management
- Keep records with property files
- Replace failed items promptly
- Advise landlords on liability protection
- Consider as part of annual safety reviews