About this service
Portable appliance testing is one part of maintaining electrical equipment. It combines a user check, formal visual inspection and, where appropriate, instrument tests. The frequency and method should reflect the equipment, environment and how it is used rather than applying one interval to everything.
The process can cover office equipment, tools, extension leads, kitchen appliances and equipment supplied in rented property. A sensible asset list and labelling system make defects and retest planning easier to manage.
Common problems we help with
Damaged plugs and flexible cables
Cuts, crushed insulation, loose cord grips and exposed conductors can create shock and fire risks.
Wrong fuse or poor plug wiring
Incorrect protection and loose terminations can allow overheating or damage.
Equipment is used in harsh conditions
Construction, kitchens, workshops and public areas increase wear and inspection needs.
Asset records are unreliable
Items move, disappear or are replaced without the register being updated.
How we carry out the work
Define the equipment register
We agree locations, item types, exclusions and how newly found equipment will be handled.
Inspect and test appropriately
Visual checks are completed for every item, with electrical tests selected according to equipment class and risk.
Label and report
Results, failed items, repairs and recommended next actions are recorded against identifiable assets.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed pat testing work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- The purpose of the inspection and the person who will rely on the report
- The number, accessibility and labelling of circuits
- Previous certificates, alterations and known defects
- Whether operational areas need phased testing or out-of-hours access
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For pat testing, the main factors normally include:
- Circuit count and distribution-board quantity
- Access to accessories, plant and tenanted rooms
- Quality of existing circuit schedules and records
- Extent of follow-up investigation or separately authorised remedial work
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- An identified inspection or test record
- Recorded results and observations for the agreed inspection
- An explanation of priorities and recommended actions
- A separate quotation where remedial work is requested
PAT Testing questions
Does every item need testing every year?
No universal annual rule applies to all equipment. Risk, type, use and environment should inform intervals.
Is a visual inspection enough?
For some equipment and situations it may be the main check. Other classes and risks require instrument testing.
Can failed items be repaired during testing?
Simple plug or fuse issues may be repairable if agreed. Other faults should be isolated and referred for repair or replacement.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.