PAT Testing Guides

How Much Does PAT Testing Cost? A Guide for UK Businesses and Landlords

If you’ve ever tried to search for PAT testing prices, you’ll know they can be all over the place. Some companies show a flat fee, others charge per item, and some don’t list prices at all. Here’s what actually matters when working out the cost.

What affects the price of PAT testing?

1. Number of items

Most testers set their fees based on how many appliances need checking. Smaller jobs are often priced as a package, while larger jobs are worked out per item. The more appliances there are, the lower the cost per item usually becomes.

2. Type of appliances

Straightforward items like kettles and lamps are quick to test. IT equipment, extension leads, and heavy-duty tools take longer. If plugs or fuses need replacing, that’s usually a small extra charge.

3. Location

Travel time and access can affect cost. City centre parking restrictions or rural locations may add to the price, although some companies absorb the extra and others pass it on.

4. Certificate and reporting

Some firms include the compliance certificate and report as standard, others treat it as an add-on. It’s worth checking, because you’ll need the paperwork for your records, insurance, or inspections.

Typical price ranges in the UK

• Small jobs: often charged as a set fee

• Medium jobs (dozens of items): usually a straightforward per-item rate

• Larger jobs (hundreds of items): cost per item can be lower

Why price isn’t everything

The cheapest option isn’t always the best. A qualified tester should use calibrated equipment, replace minor faults like fuses and plugs on the spot, and provide a clear same-day report that stands up to inspection.

Why clear pricing matters

Look out for hidden fees. Always ask:

• Is there a call-out charge?

• Are replacement plugs and fuses included?

• Do I get a digital certificate the same day?

At Peak Edge PAT Testing, we keep it simple: competitive rates, same-day certificates, and no hidden extras.

Get a quote today

If you’re a landlord, holiday let owner, or business in Sheffield, Chesterfield, or across the Peak District, we can give you a fast, clear price based on your needs.

📞 07525 755632

📧 testing@peakedgepat.com

What Needs PAT Testing? Common Appliances You Might Be Overlooking

PAT testing, or Portable Appliance Testing, is about making sure electrical equipment is safe to use. Most people know that kettles and toasters get tested, but many appliances get forgotten. Here’s a straightforward guide to what does and doesn’t need checking.

The basics: what counts as a portable appliance?

A “portable” appliance is any piece of equipment that plugs into a socket and can be moved. It doesn’t mean it has to be carried around all the time. If it has a plug, it usually falls under PAT testing.

Examples:

• Kettles, microwaves, and toasters

• Computers, monitors, and printers

• Extension leads and multi-plug adaptors

• Vacuum cleaners and heaters

• Power tools and workshop equipment

Appliances often overlooked

When we test, we often find missed items such as:

• Phone chargers and laptop power supplies

• Extension leads hidden under desks

• Lamps in offices and holiday lets

• Fans and small heaters stored in cupboards

• Kitchen gadgets like sandwich toasters or slow cookers

• Cleaning equipment like vacuum cleaners or floor polishers

If it plugs in, it should be checked.

What doesn’t need PAT testing?

• Items that run on batteries only (no mains plug)

• Fixed installations like ceiling lights, which are covered by electrical installation inspections instead

• Hard-wired appliances, such as cookers or boilers, though these still need maintenance and inspection by an electrician

Why landlords and businesses should pay attention

Tenants, guests, and employees often bring their own equipment. For example, a guest in a holiday let might use a phone charger, or an employee may plug in a personal heater. These can become a risk if not managed. Clear policies and regular testing keep you compliant and safe.

Our approach

At Peak Edge PAT Testing, we don’t just test the obvious items. We include the small things people often forget and clearly list them in your certificate. That way, you know you’re fully covered.

Need advice?

If you’re not sure what needs PAT testing in your property or business, get in touch. We’ll give you clear guidance and a same-day certificate once testing is complete.

📞 07525 755632

📧 testing@peakedgepat.com

Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement in the UK? The Facts Explained

One of the most common questions we get asked is whether PAT testing is a legal requirement. The short answer is no, there isn’t a single law that says you must do it. But the longer answer explains why most landlords, businesses, and organisations still need regular PAT testing.

What the law actually says

The UK has several regulations that require electrical equipment to be kept safe:

• Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 – employers must maintain electrical systems so they are safe.

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – a duty to protect employees and the public.

• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – requires risk assessments and control measures.

• The Housing Act 2004 and landlord regulations – landlords must make sure electrical appliances supplied to tenants are safe.

None of these laws specifically mention “PAT testing,” but they do require proof that appliances are maintained safely.

Why PAT testing is used as proof

PAT testing is the accepted and recognised method to demonstrate compliance. If there is ever an insurance claim, accident, or inspection, your test records and certificate prove you’ve taken reasonable steps to keep people safe.

Without testing, you would need another reliable way to prove the safety of your equipment. That’s why most insurers, letting agents, and auditors expect to see PAT certificates.

Who is responsible?

• Employers are responsible for equipment used by staff.

• Landlords are responsible for any appliances provided with a tenancy or holiday let.

• Schools, shops, and businesses must keep public-use appliances safe.

The bottom line

PAT testing itself is not a direct legal requirement. But safe equipment is, and PAT testing is the simplest way to show you comply with the law.

Book your PAT testing today

We keep it straightforward: clear pricing, same-day certificates, and replacement of faulty plugs and fuses where needed.

📞 07525 755632

📧 testing@peakedgepat.com

How Often Should PAT Testing Be Carried Out? Best Practice for Safety and Compliance

“How often do I need PAT testing?” is one of the questions we hear most. The answer isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on the type of appliance and the environment it’s used in. Here’s a clear guide.

The general rule

The more often equipment is used, and the harsher the environment, the more often it should be tested. Office computers in a clean room don’t need the same checks as power tools on a building site.

Common recommendations

• Offices and low-risk environments: every 2–4 years for IT equipment like computers and printers. Extension leads and kitchen appliances in staff rooms are best tested yearly.

• Shops, schools, and public buildings: yearly testing is recommended because of higher foot traffic and frequent use.

• Workshops, factories, and construction sites: every 6–12 months, depending on the type of equipment. Power tools and site equipment should be checked more often.

• Holiday lets and rental properties: yearly testing is the standard. Guests use the equipment without knowing its history, so regular checks are essential.

Visual checks in between

Staff and landlords should also do simple visual checks between tests. Look for frayed cables, damaged plugs, or signs of overheating. If in doubt, take the appliance out of service until it’s tested.

Why the right schedule matters

Over-testing wastes money. Under-testing puts people at risk and leaves you exposed if something goes wrong. A professional PAT tester can advise you on the right frequency based on your equipment and environment.

Our approach

At Peak Edge PAT Testing, we don’t just test and leave. We’ll suggest the right retest periods for your appliances so you’re not paying for unnecessary checks but still stay fully compliant.

Book your next test

For clear advice and same-day certificates in Sheffield, Chesterfield, and across the Peak District, contact us today:

📞 07525 755632

📧 testing@peakedgepat.com

Can You Do a PAT Test Yourself? What You Can Check and What You Can’t

Lots of people ask if they can do their own PAT testing to save money. The short answer is you can do basic checks yourself, but proper PAT testing needs training and the right equipment. Here’s the difference.

What you can check yourself

Anyone can and should do regular visual checks of appliances. Things to look out for:

• Cracked or damaged plugs

• Loose or bent pins

• Frayed or split cables

• Burn marks or signs of overheating

• Appliances that feel hot or smell unusual

If you spot these issues, stop using the item and get it tested or repaired.

What you can’t do without training

Proper PAT testing involves using calibrated test equipment to check:

• Earth continuity

• Insulation resistance

• Polarity of wiring

• Load and leakage levels

These aren’t things you can reliably judge by eye. That’s why insurers, letting agents, and auditors expect a qualified tester’s certificate, not just a personal inspection.

Why professional testing matters

• You get a same-day certificate proving compliance.

• Minor repairs like replacing plugs and fuses can be done on-site.

• Your records will stand up in court or with insurers if there’s ever an accident.

DIY checks are a good habit, but they don’t replace a professional test.

The bottom line

You can help keep appliances safe by spotting obvious damage. But for full compliance and peace of mind, PAT testing should be carried out by someone trained, with the right equipment and reporting.

Book a professional PAT test today

We provide clear reports, same-day certificates, and on-site repairs across Sheffield, Chesterfield, and the Peak District.

📞 07525 755632

📧 testing@peakedgepat.com