If you let a property or run a business across Chesterfield, Sheffield or York, you have probably seen “EICR” and “PAT testing” used almost interchangeably by letting agents, HMO licensing checklists and “electrical safety certificate” searches. They are not the same thing, and knowing which one you actually need, or whether it is both, matters if you want to be properly covered rather than just holding the wrong piece of paper.
Two Certificates, Two Different Jobs
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) covers the fixed electrical installation in a property, the wiring in the walls, the sockets, the consumer unit, anything permanently connected. PAT testing covers the portable appliances plugged into that installation, kettles, microwaves, lamps, washing machines, anything with a plug on the end of a cable. An EICR does not test appliances. PAT testing does not test the wiring. Neither one covers what the other does, so having one is never a substitute for the other.
What an EICR Covers
An EICR is carried out by a qualified electrician, usually NICEIC or NAPIT registered, and checks the condition of the fixed wiring against current safety standards. For rented property it is generally renewed every five years, though licensed HMOs are often held to a shorter cycle by their local authority. Electrical safety regulation for rented property has been tightening through 2025 and into 2026, and an EICR is increasingly expected as standard rather than optional. Peak Edge PAT does not carry out EICRs, this is a separate qualification and a separate visit, so if that is what you need, look for a NICEIC or NAPIT registered electrician local to you.
What PAT Testing Covers
PAT testing is a visual inspection and electrical test of portable appliances, carried out to the IET Code of Practice. Unlike an EICR there is no fixed legal interval, the right frequency depends on the type of equipment and how hard it is used (see how often you need PAT testing for the detail). This is the half we do: every visit gets a same-day digital certificate and a full itemised report, whether that is a single holiday let kettle or a full commercial site.
Do You Need Both?
Most landlords running an HMO or several rental properties need both, on their own separate schedules, an EICR for the fixed wiring and ongoing PAT testing for whatever appliances come with the property. Businesses with fixed premises typically need an EICR at setup or on a lease change, then PAT testing on a rolling schedule after that. Holiday lets are asked for an EICR less consistently by councils, but PAT testing between guest changeovers is standard practice, see our holiday let PAT testing page for what that looks like in practice. If you were told you need “an electrical certificate” and are not sure which one, the quickest way to tell is to ask whether it is about the wiring in the walls (EICR) or the appliances plugged into it (PAT).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EICR the same as a PAT test?
No. An EICR examines the fixed wiring and installation, PAT testing examines portable appliances. They are carried out separately, by different specialists, and one does not substitute for the other.
Do I need an EICR if I already PAT test my appliances?
Usually yes, if you are letting a property or running a business with fixed wiring that has not been recently checked. PAT testing only ever covers the appliances, never the wiring behind the walls.
How often do I need an EICR for a rented property?
Generally every five years, though licensed HMOs are often held to a shorter interval by the local authority. Always check the specific conditions attached to your licence or tenancy type rather than relying on a general rule.
Who can carry out an EICR near Chesterfield, Sheffield or York?
Look for a NICEIC or NAPIT registered electrician local to you, this is a different qualification to PAT testing and not a service we provide.
Does Peak Edge PAT do EICRs?
No, we specialise in PAT testing only. We are happy to explain where PAT testing fits alongside an EICR if you are trying to work out what your property or business actually needs.
Related Reading
- HMO Electrical Safety in Sheffield and Chesterfield
- PAT Testing for Landlords in Derbyshire
- How Often Should You PAT Test?
Get in Touch
If you know it is the appliances you need sorted, or you are still not sure which certificate applies to your property, get in touch and we will point you in the right direction.