PAT TESTING FAQ
What is portable appliance testing?
Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.
How often must I have PAT testing carried out at my rental property?
The Health & Safety Executive provides no set rule on PAT testing frequency, only that testing should be done regularly to ensure preventative maintenance. The reason that there is no set frequency is because different situations arise that call for different measures. There are a number of factors that affect PAT testing frequency and it is up to each individual to determine when testing should be carried out.
How often would you recommend?
Considering the relatively low cost of PAT testing, we would suggest that for peace of mind, PAT testing should be carried out on an annual basic. At the very least testing should be completed prior to new tenants taking on a property.