PAT Testing Myths Debunked
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Portable Appliance Testing, commonly known as PAT testing, is one of the most misunderstood areas of compliance. Some landlords and business owners overdo it by testing far more frequently than required. Others underestimate the legal expectations and risk fines, insurance refusal and liability if an electrical incident occurs.
Myth 1
PAT Testing is a legal requirement for all properties
PAT testing itself is not specifically mentioned in any single law. However, several laws require electrical equipment provided in homes and workplaces to be safe and properly maintained. These include the Electricity at Work Regulations and landlord safety obligations.
So although PAT is not named directly, testing portable appliances is the most widely accepted way to prove compliance. Insurers, risk assessors and local authorities will normally expect documented PAT testing for any supplied electrical items.
Myth 2
Everything with a plug needs testing
Not all appliances require testing on the same frequency and some do not need testing at all. The level of testing required depends on the risk. For example:
A double insulated desk fan in a low risk office does not need testing as often as
A commercial kettle or power tool used daily
Understanding the environment and the appliance type is key to setting an appropriate testing schedule.
Myth 3
PAT Testing must be done every year.
Many businesses and landlords test annually because it is simple to remember. However, there is no fixed time requirement stated in law. Frequency depends on risk.
Common industry practice is:
Low risk office equipment every 2 to 4 years
Kettles, toasters and kitchen appliances every 1 to 2 years
Construction and industrial equipment every 3 to 6 months
Appliances in rental properties at each tenant change or based on usage and condition
If equipment is being used heavily or shows signs of damage it should be tested more often.
Myth 4
PAT Testing can only be carried out by an electrician
You do not have to be a qualified electrician to perform PAT testing. You must simply be competent and trained to do so. For many small businesses and landlords it is cost effective to use an external PAT contractor because the risk of error is removed and full documentation is provided.
Where equipment is high risk or used in commercial environments it is strongly recommended that a trained specialist performs the testing and records the results.
Myth 5
If an appliance looks fine it does not need testing.
Some electrical faults are visible such as cracked plugs, damaged cables or overheating marks. Many faults are hidden inside the equipment and cannot be seen without testing.
PAT testing combines visual inspection with electrical safety checks to ensure the appliance is safe for continued use.
Visual checks are important but they do not replace formal testing.
What PAT Testing Should Include
A compliant PAT test typically covers:
Visual inspection of the appliance, plug and cable
Earth continuity test where applicable
Insulation resistance test
Polarity check
Functional safety check
After testing, the item should either:
Pass and be labelled as safe, or
Fail and be taken out of service until repaired or replaced
Penalties for Ignoring PAT Testing Requirements
If an unsafe appliance causes injury or damage and the responsible person has not taken reasonable steps to ensure electrical safety, consequences may include:
Civil claims from injured parties or tenants
Criminal prosecution for negligence
Invalidated insurance
Enforcement action from regulators
PAT testing provides the evidence of due diligence that insurers and investigators expect.
PAT testing is not about ticking boxes. It is a practical way to prevent electric shock, fire and equipment failure.
Understanding the real requirements helps property owners and businesses avoid overspending while still protecting occupants and meeting legal expectations. A sensible PAT testing schedule saves money, reduces risk and provides peace of mind.
