Portable Appliance Testing
What Is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the professional inspection and testing of portable electrical appliances, including plug-in equipment used within a property. The purpose of PAT testing is to confirm that electrical appliances are safe to use, functioning correctly, and compliant with relevant UK electrical safety standards.
The process can include visual inspections, electrical measurements, and checks of plugs, cables, appliance condition, and internal safety components.
Why PAT Testing Matters
For landlords, property managers, HMO owners, commercial occupiers, and office managers, regular PAT testing is an important part of maintaining electrical safety. It helps to:
- Confirm that electrical appliances are safe for tenants, employees, and visitors
- Meet responsibilities under UK electrical safety regulations
- Provide evidence of compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
- Lower the risk of electrical faults and fire within rental and commercial properties
- Help prevent insurance claim problems associated with unsafe electrical equipment
Although PAT testing is not legally required for every appliance in every situation, it is widely regarded as best practice and may be requested by insurers and licensing authorities.
Our Packages
Select the package that corresponds to the number of appliances you need to have tested.
Up to 10 Appliances
*All inclusive (No hidden cost)
- For one fuse board or consumer unit. Any additional fuse board is £89.99.
10–20 Appliances
*All inclusive (No hidden cost)
- For one fuse board or consumer unit. Any additional fuse board is £89.99.
20–30 Appliances
*All inclusive (No hidden cost)
- For one fuse board or consumer unit. Any additional fuse board is £89.99.
More About Us
Why Choose Prestige Safe for PAT Testing?
Full Visual & Electrical Testing
Our PAT testing can include inspection of the plug, cable, and appliance body, together with insulation resistance, earth continuity, and functional testing.
Clear Labelling & Digital Reports
Every appliance that has been tested receives an appropriate label. You also receive a detailed PAT test report showing the test results and recommendations for the next testing date.
Suitable for London Rental & Commercial Properties
Our PAT testing service is suitable for a variety of properties and environments, including HMOs, communal areas, offices, shops, and multi-unit buildings.
Flexible Scheduling With Minimal Disruption
Testing can be arranged around tenant availability, business operating hours, and property access requirements to help keep disruption to a minimum.
PAT Testing – FAQs
Is PAT testing legally required?
Not every electrical appliance is required by law to undergo PAT testing. However, landlords and other duty-holders are responsible for ensuring that electrical equipment is safe.
PAT testing is one of the most recognised ways of demonstrating that electrical equipment is being properly checked and is strongly recommended by insurers, licensing authorities, and safety regulators.
How often should PAT testing be performed?
The appropriate testing frequency depends on factors such as the level of risk, type of appliance, frequency of use, and environment.
- Annual testing is common in rental properties and HMOs
- High-use or higher-risk environments may need more frequent inspections
- Offices and lower-risk appliances can follow a risk-based testing cycle
What does PAT testing include?
A complete PAT test generally includes:
- Visual inspection of the plug, cable, casing, and overall condition
- Functional testing
- Insulation resistance testing
- Earth continuity and polarity checks, where applicable
- Appliance labelling and recording of test results
Will I receive reports or labels?
Yes. Following testing, you will receive:
- A complete digital PAT test report
- Labels for each tested appliance
- The recommended date for the next test
Who should conduct PAT testing?
PAT testing should be performed by a competent person or qualified engineer who understands UK electrical safety standards, appropriate testing equipment, and electrical compliance requirements for landlords and property managers.