PAT Testing in Luton

PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. It checks electrical items that plug in, such as kettles, microwaves, heaters, computers and extension leads.

Each item gets a look over of the plug, cable and casing. Then a tester checks the earth and insulation to find faults you cannot see. A small label shows the result and the test date.

No law sets a fixed date for PAT testing. But landlords and employers must keep the appliances they provide safe to use.

A PAT test record is a simple way to show you have done that. Some letting agents and insurers ask to see one. Many landlords book a test between tenancies, when the home is empty and easy to get into.

A failed item gets a fail label and is unplugged, so nobody uses it by mistake. We tell you why it failed.

Some faults are small, like the wrong fuse or a loose plug. Others, like a damaged cable or cracked casing, usually mean the item should be replaced. Your record lists every fail, so you can see what needs doing.

Our electrician works room by room and tests each item where it sits. Only the item being tested is unplugged, so the rest of the room keeps working.

In an office, computers are switched off one at a time, so expect a short break at each desk. Your record is usually sent within 24 to 48 hours.