There’s no specific law that says landlords of ordinary rented homes in England must PAT test. But landlords must make sure any electrical appliances they supply are safe, and PAT testing is the simplest way to show you’ve checked them. HMO licence conditions often require it.
What does the law say?
The electrical safety regulations for private rented homes cover the fixed installation, meaning the wiring, sockets and consumer unit. They don’t cover plug-in appliances. However, general consumer and product safety law means anything you supply with the property should be safe to use. If an appliance you provided caused harm, you’d need to show you took reasonable care.
When is PAT testing worth doing?
- The property is furnished or part-furnished
- It’s an HMO or student let, where appliances get heavy use
- The council’s HMO licence conditions ask for it
- Your insurer or letting agent asks for it
- You’re supplying older or second-hand appliances
Which appliances should be tested?
Anything with a plug that you provide: kettles, toasters, microwaves, fridges, washing machines, lamps, heaters, vacuum cleaners and extension leads. Tenants’ own appliances are their responsibility. Built-in appliances wired directly into the installation, such as an electric hob, are covered by the EICR instead.
How often?
There’s no fixed legal interval. Many landlords test at the start of each new tenancy and every one to two years in busy HMOs. A visual check between tenancies is always worthwhile.
How much does it cost?
| PAT testing add-on | Total price |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 items | £45 |
| Up to 20 items | £65 |
We add PAT testing while we’re at the property for an EICR, so there’s no separate visit. See PAT testing and EICR prices.
What do I get?
A record of each item tested and the result, with labels on the appliances. Anything that fails is labelled and you’re told why, so you can repair or replace it.
Is PAT testing the same as an EICR?
No. An EICR checks the fixed wiring and is a legal requirement for landlords. PAT testing checks portable appliances. See what is an EICR.
Add PAT testing to your EICR
Check your total price on our PAT testing page, call 0161 400 1855 or 07493 508 439, or send us an enquiry. We work Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm, across Manchester and the surrounding areas (see the areas we cover). Your report is emailed within one working day of your payment clearing.
