Frequently Asked Questions

Do landlords and letting agents need to be concerned with PAT Testing?

It is not a specific legal requirement to have PAT Testing carried out. However the regulations on electrical appliances for landlords and letting agents require that goods supplied as part of a tenancy agreement, or in let accommodation are safe.

The Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994 Part II 12. – (1) covers the supply of equipment in let property.  All appliances are required to have pre-fitted plugs which are undamaged, with insulated sleeves, the correct fuse and a working cord grip.  It is recommended that electrical equipment be thoroughly tested at the start of each new let and retested on an annual basis to ensure compliance with this regulation.

The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 states that no electrical appliances supplied as part of a tenancy agreement, or with let accommodation (i.e. ‘supply in the course of a business' – The Consumer Protection Act 1987) should jeopardise the safety of people, domestic animals or property.  Each item should be safe and if it requires instructions to be operated safely, they must be supplied. This applies to both new and second-hand appliances and covers all electrical items supplied for the intended use of the tenant. PAT Testing is the recommended method of ensuring that these appliances are safe and that the landlord and letting agent has shown ‘due care'.

Trading Standards provide excellent advice for landlords.