PAT testing | What is it and do landlords need to do it?
What is PAT 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.
However, it is essential to understand that visual examination is an essential part of the process because some types of electrical safety defect can’t be detected by testing alone.
What appliances should be tested?
Portable appliances essentially covers anything with a plug, and so will include small domestic appliances such as kettles and toasters and white goods such as washing machines that have been provided by the landlord.
Is PAT Testing compulsory?
Although the Government is planning to review this, there are no current legal requirements for landlords to conduct PAT tests. However, there are product safety regulations which provide that items in rented properties need to be in a safe condition. The best way of proving this is either to provide new appliances or have them checked with a certificate to prove this. It is advisable to conduct tests before the start of each new tenancy to be on the safe side.
The Complete Property Health Check package available now includes a test for Legionella, along with PAT testing and smoke and CO2 detection equipment tests. For further information, contact your property manager or call us on 0203 551 9900.
