Landlord PAT Testing in Coventry Just £39.99

The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, mandatory since 1 January 1997, states that all electrical appliances connected to the mains supplied with let accommodation must be safe.

These appliances include washing machines, toasters and kettles, new or second-hand. Landlords therefore need to regularly PAT test and maintain all electrical equipment periodically – as they may become faulty over time.

The only sure method of ensuring that these appliances are safe is to have them tested by a trained competent person using the appropriate calibrated portable appliance testing equipment. Failure to comply with the electrical regulations may constitute a criminal offence under the Consumers Protection Act 1987, which carries a maximum penalty on summary conviction of a £5000 fine and/or 6 months imprisonment.

In addition, be sued in Civil Law under the duty of care for failure to ensure the tenants safety and face punitive damages.

From a tenant’s perspective, it is essential that a property is checked prior to moving in to ensure that all appliances supplied are in a safe working condition. It would be good practice to have the equipment checked at regular intervals thereafter.

Records should be available from landlords detailing the appliances supplied as part of the tenancy agreement and the checks made on those goods. The records should indicate who carried out the PAT testing and when they were tested.