Portable Appliance Testing

PAT testing is one of the most common ways for homeowners, businesses and landlords to stay on top of safety regulations. It reduces the risk of a shock or fire, and enables you to comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Electrical PAT testing involves a visual inspection and a manual check using a portable appliance tester.

We carry out these electrical tests across London and its various boroughs. Our electricians can PAT test all appliances, and will be happy to perform the work at a time that’s best for you. Whether you’re a homeowner, run a busy office, or have a tenanted property, we’re here to help.

If you know how many appliances need PAT testing, we can offer a fixed-price quote. If you only need a few appliances tested, we can also charge at a half-hourly rate if you need other electrical work done at the same time. This sometimes makes things cheaper for our customers.

PAT testing isn’t a legal requirement, but business owners and landlords are legally responsible for the safety of on-site electrical equipment. Failure to keep appliances in safe condition could lead to prosecution if an electric shock or fire happens because of a fault. Regular PAT testing is the best way to show that appliances have been checked for safety, and that you’ve met your legal obligations.

Landlords of private rental properties should have all appliances they provide PAT tested, including stationary ones like fridges and freezers. Most arrange for an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at the same time as electrical PAT testing for simplicity.

Homeowners should get appliances tested if they’re in any doubt about how safe they are.

An Aspect electrician will first carry out a formal visual inspection of each appliance being tested. They then insert the attached plug into their PAT testing equipment. This allows them to perform an earth bond test, quickly followed by an insulation resistance test. Each appliance takes around a minute to check, during which time it will be unplugged from the mains.

Depending on the results, we’ll either mark your appliance as having ‘passed’ or ‘failed’ the PAT test. We also give you a log of the appliances checked, and attach stickers to the plugs or cables. This makes it clear which appliances have had the combined inspection and testing procedure.