Confused by the rules and regulations surrounding PAT testing for landlords? EMC Electrical Group Bristol have put together this short guide to PAT testing in rental properties to answer all your questions and help make your obligations clear.

PAT Testing for Landlords

What is PAT testing?

PAT testing involves the visual inspection and testing of any electrical appliances, that you provide to your tenants, that have a plug and can be moved. Some faults, such as damaged cords or plugs, will be picked up easily with a visual inspection whilst others will only become apparent during electrical testing. After an appliance has been tested, your electrician will attach a sticker that states whether it has passed or failed and with a recommended date for the next inspection.

These appliances include:

Microwaves
Kettles
Lamps
Extension cords
Larger appliances such as fridge freezers and washing machines that are not hardwired
Heated towel rails (even where fixed to the wall)

PAT testing regulations for Landlords

Landlords in Bristol have a legal responsibility to provide an electrically safe environment for their tenants. Most landlords are well aware of their legal obligation to carry out regular EICR inspections but the rules surrounding PAT testing for landlords are a little more vague.

Let’s take a look at each rental type:

PAT Testing for HMO’s – The law is clear that landlords of HMO’s must have regular PAT testing carried out. This is due to the unique, high demands that are placed on shared electrical equipment in this type of environment.
PAT Testing for rental properties - For landlords of individually leased properties, the law does not stipulate that a PAT test is required. Instead it states that a landlord must ensure the electrical system is safe and also that any appliances supplied to the tenant are safe. The best way to ensure that is to have a registered electrician carry out PAT testing at your Bristol property.

Why carry out PAT testing at a rental property?

If you are the landlord of a private dwelling in Bristol, you may be wondering why you should have PAT testing carried out, especially as it is not mandated by law.

As a landlord, you have a duty of care to your tenant. Having regular PAT testing carried out by a qualified electrician helps you to meet that obligation. It demonstrates that you take your responsibilities seriously and will reduce the risk of electrical fire in your property. Should an electrical fire occur at your Bristol property, you can provide evidence through the PAT testing records that you have done everything in your power to ensure safety.

For many landlords, it makes sense to combine PAT testing with their regular EICR inspections. This ensures your electrics are fully compliant and as safe as possible.