NCL Property Inventories

Portable Appliance Testing

Portable Appliance Testing

Among our range of services, we offer Portable Appliance Testing of electrical equipment for those, Landlords, and Management Agents, who need to comply with The Health & Safety Act (1974).when renting out, residential properties.

Our staff are fully qualified (City & Guilds 2377) to complete Portable Appliance Testing (Pat tests) to the highest standards required by the (HSE). We will test any item that has a mains voltage plug attached to it including I.T. equipment, lamps, printers, fridges, vacuum cleaners, kettles, toasters, RCD adaptors, extension leads etc. Businesses – A Portable Appliance Test is an essential part of any businesses Health & Safety Policy.

Landlords or Agents – All Landlords who let property as a business activity direct to tenants or through an agent are required by law to ensure the electrical equipment they supply with the tenancy is safe. The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 requires that all mains electrical equipment including white goods, cookers, toasters, etc. provided in rental accommodation must be safe. It is strongly advised that the equipment is inspected, Portable Appliance Test (PAT test) is conducted before the start of any new let.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) compulsory?

A. No. The law simply requires an employer to ensure that their electrical equipment is maintained in order to prevent danger. It does not say how this should be done or how often. Employers should take a risk-based approach, considering the type of equipment and what it is being used for. If it is used regularly and moved a lot e.g. a floor cleaner or a kettle, testing (along with visual checks) can be an important part of an effective maintenance regime giving employers confidence that they are doing what is necessary to help them meet their legal duties.

Q. I’ve been told that, by law, I must have my portable electrical appliances tested every year. Is this correct?

A. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury is maintained in a safe condition. However, the Regulations do not specify what needs to be done, by whom or how frequently (ie they don’t make inspection or testing of electrical appliances a legal requirement, nor do they make it a legal requirement to undertake this annually).**

Q. How frequently do I need to test my electrical appliances?

A. The frequency of inspection and testing depends upon the type of equipment and the environment it is used in. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a table or bedside lamp in a hotel bedroom.

For guidance on suggested frequencies of inspection and testing, have a look at the following HSE documents: If you are unsure about the type of equipment and frequency of testing please contact us as we are keen to ensure you, your staff and your premises remain safe and to help you comply with legislation.

Contact us for more information.

For your peace of mind we are insured for both public liability and professional indemnity