Landlord Safety Certification offers dependable Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) services designed for landlords, letting agents, and commercial property owners. Our qualified engineers perform thorough inspections and electronic tests on all portable appliances to ensure they meet current safety standards. Whether managing one rental or multiple commercial properties, we provide flexible, budget-friendly testing options with same-day certification, helping you stay compliant, protected, and legally covered.

We utilise industry-approved testing equipment to ensure precise results every time. All testing is performed by the IET Code of Practice and UK safety standards. With quick turnaround times and a focus on dependability, we support you in maintaining peace of mind and fulfilling your duty of care with minimal disruption.

What Is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) and Why It Matters

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a structured process used to examine electrical appliances and confirm they are safe to use. It includes both a detailed visual inspection and instrument-based tests to check for internal faults, damaged wiring, insulation issues, or earth continuity failures. These tests help identify risks that may not be visible to the naked eye.

PAT testing is essential in rental properties, commercial workplaces, and shared housing, where different people frequently use appliances. Regular testing reduces the risk of electrical fires, protects users from electric shock, and demonstrates due diligence.

Beyond safety, PAT testing helps landlords and business owners meet their obligations under UK health and safety laws. It also provides evidence of compliance for insurance purposes and can be critical in meeting local authority licensing requirements for HMOs and commercial premises.

Ultimately, Portable appliance testing is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but about creating safer environments for tenants, employees, and the public.

Who Needs PAT Testing? Understanding Your Legal Duties

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not just a best practice but a key part of demonstrating your legal duty of care in environments where electrical equipment is in use. While there is no specific law that states Portable appliance testing must be carried out at set intervals, several UK regulations make it a legal obligation to ensure all electrical equipment is safe. Whether you’re a landlord, business owner, or organisation, failing to comply with these responsibilities can lead to serious legal, financial, and safety consequences.

Below are the key groups who need PAT testing and why:

Landlords of Residential Properties: If you let out furnished or part-furnished accommodation, you’re legally responsible for ensuring that all electrical appliances provided as part of the tenancy are safe. This applies to everything from fridges and washing machines to kettles and toasters. Portable appliance testing is often required by local councils, especially for HMOs, and is frequently requested by letting agents, insurers, and licensing authorities.
Letting Agents and Property Managers: Managing multiple properties means greater responsibility. Letting agents who act on behalf of landlords are expected to ensure properties meet all legal safety standards, including the safety of portable electrical appliances. Portable appliance testing demonstrates professionalism, diligence, and compliance with both tenancy agreements and legal duties.
Business Owners and Employers: Any business that supplies electrical appliances for employee or customer use is required by the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 to ensure those appliances are safe. This includes offices, salons, cafes, workshops, retail shops, and more. Portable appliance test certificate is an effective and affordable way to meet your compliance obligations, reduce risk, and protect your staff and visitors.
HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) Landlords: HMO properties are heavily regulated due to the increased risk and number of tenants. Many local authorities include Portable appliance testing as a condition for granting or renewing HMO licences. If you operate shared housing, regular PAT testing shows you are taking the necessary precautions to protect tenants and comply with council rules.
Contractors and Self-Employed Tradespeople: If you use portable electrical tools or equipment on job sites, you’re expected to ensure those items are safe. Even if you’re self-employed, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) require your gear to be well-maintained and fit for purpose. Portable appliance testing reduces downtime, prevents on-site accidents, and supports a professional image.
Event Organisers and Temporary Installations: When hosting temporary events, exhibitions, or pop-ups where electrical equipment is used, Portable appliance testing is often mandatory, especially if you’re using venues with strict safety policies. It helps you meet venue requirements and avoid last-minute disruptions due to failed safety checks.
Why Legal Compliance Matters: While Portable appliance test certificate isn’t a standalone legal requirement, failing to maintain safe electrical appliances can lead to:
- Fines or legal action under the Health and Safety at Work Act
- Rejection of insurance claims following an incident
- Loss of local authority licences (particularly for HMOs)
- Serious injury or damage due to electrical faults
PAT testing is the industry standard way to document safety and demonstrate compliance with your obligations as a responsible landlord, agent, or business.

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What Our Portable appliance Testing Service Covers

Our Portable Appliance Test certificate service is designed to deliver complete peace of mind, compliance, and convenience. We go beyond basic checks to provide a comprehensive inspection and testing process tailored to meet legal standards and everyday usage risks.

Here’s what you can expect from our service:

Thorough Visual Inspection

We start by carefully examining each appliance for visible signs of damage, wear, or misuse, such as cracked plugs, frayed wires, exposed conductors, or damaged casings. This step identifies many common risks before testing even begins.

Electrical Safety Testing

Using calibrated PAT testing equipment, our engineers assess:

Earth continuity (for Class I appliances)
Insulation resistance
Earth leakage
Lead polarity and fuse condition

These tests help detect internal faults that could lead to electric shock or fire.

Pass/Fail Labelling

Each appliance is labelled with a clear “Pass” or “Fail” sticker, including the test date, asset ID, and retest due date. This makes on-site verification easy for staff, inspectors, or tenants.

Digital Test Report & Certificate

Upon completion, you’ll receive a complete PAT testing report and compliance certificate, which can be stored for insurance, legal, or licensing purposes. The report includes test results, item counts, and appliance descriptions.

All Types of Equipment Covered

Our engineers are fully trained and equipped to test a broad range of appliances, including:

Computers and monitors
Extension leads and multiway adaptors
Kettles, microwaves, and fridges
Hairdryers, power tools, and audio/visual equipment
110V and 240V appliances
Class I, Class II, and IT equipment

Whether you manage a home, office, shop, or industrial unit, we’ve got it covered.

Benefits of Choosing Our Certified PAT Engineers

When you choose our certified Portable appliance testing engineers, you’re investing in accuracy, accountability, and long-term safety. Our technicians are City & Guilds qualified and bring extensive field experience in testing a wide variety of appliances across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They follow strict procedures aligned with the latest IET Code of Practice, ensuring each inspection is both compliant and thorough.

Beyond technical expertise, our engineers are punctual, respectful of your property, and trained to work efficiently with minimal disruption. Whether you’re managing a rental property, overseeing an office, or operating a retail space, we adapt to your environment and schedule. Our team comes equipped with calibrated, professional-grade tools to deliver precise results on every visit.

We also go beyond simple testing, providing practical advice, on-the-spot minor repairs (such as replacing faulty plugs or fuses), and clear pass/fail labelling on each appliance. You’ll receive a same-day digital certificate and detailed report, making it easy to demonstrate compliance to insurers, licensing authorities, and safety inspectors.

Protect People and Property with Professional PAT Testing

Every portable appliance certificate in your property carries a level of risk, especially when left unchecked. Over time, even the most reliable equipment can develop faults that pose serious hazards, from electrical shocks to property-damaging fires. That’s why conducting regular PAT testing is an essential element of any responsible safety plan.

By choosing professional PAT testing, you’re ensuring that each appliance is inspected, tested, and certified following the latest UK safety standards. This not only protects those who live or work on your premises but also supports compliance with key regulations such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Our qualified engineers identify hidden faults early, prevent equipment failures, and provide complete documentation for legal or insurance purposes. Whether you’re a landlord, business owner, or facilities manager, PAT testing offers a simple yet powerful way to minimise risk, maintain operational safety, and safeguard your investment.

Frequently asked questions.

What exactly is PAT testing?

PAT testing is a safety check carried out on electrical appliances to ensure they’re safe for everyday use. This involves looking over the item for visible signs of damage and using test equipment to check the internal safety of the appliance.

Who should consider PAT testing?

Anyone supplying or using electrical equipment in a workplace, rental property, or public space should consider PAT testing. Landlords, business owners, and facility managers must prioritise user safety and prevent liability issues.

Is PAT testing a legal obligation?

There is no specific law stating that PAT testing must be done. However, UK regulations mandate that electrical items must be maintained in a safe condition. Regular PAT testing helps landlords and businesses prove they’re meeting that responsibility.