Residential PAT Testing - Information for Landlords

September 24, 2024

Find out more about PAT Testing (not EET Testing) for Landlords here in the UK

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) involves checking appliances that can be moved around to ensure they are safe for use as they are not permanently fixed in one location—a crucial consideration for landlords, in the UK.

What inspections should landlords conduct?

Before your tenants move in test any items you provided for the household yourself. in our experience working with Landlords common items include Microwaves / Fryers, Toasters, Oven/Hoods, Extensions, Lighting (such as Lamps), Refrigerators, Dishwasher, Washer/Dryer

What is the purpose of PAT testing?

Regular Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) offers reassurance that landlords are proactive about the safety of both their tenants and properties by detecting issues before they escalate into serious concerns. While tenants are advised to inspect appliances since they use them daily, professional PAT testing provides the depth of qualified testing and records to demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding your tenants and property. PAT testing can detect problems that a quick check might miss.

How frequently do landlords need to conduct PAT testing?

It's an idea to have appliances checked yearly to reduce disruption to the property and the tenant while also staying compliant with regulations. Yearly should be treated as a maximum, however, as various tenants may have lifestyles that could potentially result in appliance damage and harm, to tenants or property.

How many years does a PAT test certificate last for?

PAT testing certificates are issued once appliances undergo testing to demonstrate compliance with regulations. The certificate acts as evidence that the individual, in charge of equipment maintenance has undertaken required measures to uphold safety standards with an expiration date falling between six to twelve months from the test period.

Do I need to have Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) done by law?

While it's not mandatory by law for landlords to conduct PAT testing, doing so routinely could offer you added protection in case a household electrical appliance malfunctions and triggers a fire.

PAT Testing

< Older Post Newer Post >

Do New Electrical Appliances Really Need PAT Testing?

September 9, 2025

Introduction We’ve been hearing this question more and more from customers lately: “Do brand-new appliances still need PAT testing?” It’s a fair question. After all, new equipment usually arrives sealed, with manufacturer labels and testing certificates. But when it comes to safety, compliance, and peace of mind, the answer is a little more nuanced. What the Law Actually Says There is no strict legal requirement that says every appliance must be PAT tested. The law simply requires that employers and duty holders keep electrical equipment safe and properly maintained. That means the responsibility is on you to ensure equipment is safe to use, whether it’s new or not. The law doesn’t prescribe how you do it, but PAT testing is one of the most reliable methods. New Equipment: What Best Practice Looks Like Industry guidance generally states that brand-new equipment does not usually need a full PAT test . A thorough visual inspection is often enough. Why? Because new appliances are supplied as safe. But… there are a few important caveats. Why Some Organisations Still Choose to PAT Test New Appliances Even new items can develop issues before they reach you: Transit damage : knocks, drops, or rough handling. Storage conditions : damp, dust, or stacking problems. Manufacturing faults : rare, but possible. For most offices or low-risk workplaces, a visual check may be sufficient. But in higher-risk environments, like healthcare, construction, or manufacturing, many duty holders choose to test new equipment anyway. It’s about risk, peace of mind, and protecting people. A Risk-Based Approach That Works Low-risk settings (offices, shops, classrooms): Carry out a visual inspection, log the equipment, and move it into service. High-risk or critical settings (workshops, hospitals, factories): Consider a full PAT test even for new appliances, to establish a safe baseline and prevent costly downtime or accidents. Documentation and Competence Matter Whether you perform a visual inspection or a full PAT test, keep a record. This creates a clear audit trail and shows that you’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure safety. It’s also important that the person carrying out the inspection or test is competent, trained, knowledgeable, and confident in spotting issues. Conclusion: What’s the Smartest Strategy? In most cases, new appliances don’t require PAT testing, just a solid visual check as part of your risk management process. But remember: if the equipment is critical, the environment is high-risk, or there’s any sign of damage, a PAT test is a small investment in safety and peace of mind.