PAT stands for portable appliance testing and refers to the testing of electrical appliances that are not fixed in any one place, to make sure they are safe to use. PAT testing is one of the many things to consider as a landlord in the UK.
What checks should a landlord do?
Any items that you have provided yourself to the household prior to any tenants moving in needs to be tested. You don’t need to worry about anything your tenants have brought to the property themselves. This could include, but is not limited to:
• Microwave
• Toaster
• Oven / Oven Hood
• Extension Leads
• Lamps / Other Lighting
• Fridge
• Dishwasher
• Washing Machine / Tumble Dryer
Why is PAT testing needed?
PAT testing gives landlords the peace of mind that you are helping to ensure your tenants and your property are safe. Regular testing can also pick up issues before they become a real problem. It is recommended that tenants check appliances regularly, as they see them every day. However, PAT testing by professionals will ensure everything is checked thoroughly and will provide you with all the correct certificates to prove you have taken steps to ensure the safety of your tenants and property. A PAT testing company may catch issues that a cursory check could miss.
How often is PAT testing required for landlords?
We recommend testing landlord’s appliances every 12 months. This allows for minimal disturbance to the property and the tenant, as well as keeping up to date with current regulations. It’s important to get items tested every 12 months as a maximum, due to the potential of different tenants moving in and out frequently. Tenants may have different styles of living, creating a danger of damaging appliances and causing harm to other tenants or property.
How long is a PAT test certificate valid for?
PAT testing certificates are provided after appliances have been tested. The certificates show that the landlord complies with regulations by having their portable equipment regularly inspected for damage and/or risks. The certificate serves as proof that the person responsible for maintaining equipment has taken the necessary steps to ensure safety. The expiry date is typically within six to twelve months from the testing period.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
Although official PAT testing is not currently a legal requirement for landlords, carrying out regular PAT testing could help protect you if one of the electrical appliances in your house shorted and caused a fire. It provides an extra layer of reassurance and an audit trail should anything go wrong.
How much does it cost to get PAT testing done?
Testing starts from just £40. We have trained PAT testers ready to help. Contact us to find out more today!
