What is a Portable Appliance?

A portable appliance is any electrical item that can be easily moved and unplugged from the mains supply — such as computers, kettles, hair dryers, power tools, and washing machines.

What is PAT Testing?

PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) is a safety check carried out on electrical equipment fitted with a plug to ensure it’s safe to use. A competent technician performs a visual inspection to identify and repair visible faults, followed by electrical tests to confirm internal safety. PAT testing only applies to plug-connected appliances. Equipment testing for hardwired or fixed devices is a separate process carried out under electrical inspection and testing procedures.

What areas do you cover?

We try to cover as wide an area as possible, whilst also remaining a local company. If you need a PAT tester in any of the following locations, get in touch today: Carlisle, Brampton, Longtown, Gretna, Annan, Lockerbie, Dumfries, Penrith, Dalston, Wigton, Aspatria, Silloth, or Haltwhistle.

Do I need a new PAT Certificate if I move address?

Yes. Certificates are site-specific and become invalid if you change address. A new inspection should also be carried out in case of damage during the move.

What does the PAT Testing Certificate include?

Our certificate and report include:

• Appliance ID and matching label
• Description and location
• Engineer’s name
• Tests performed and results
• Details of any repairs made

Unlike many providers, we include full test results and repair logs for your maintenance records.

How long does it take to receive my PAT Certificate?

Digital certificates are issued the same day as the completion of your testing. Printed certificates are available upon request and are usually printed and posted within 3 days.

How often should I get PAT testing done?

Frequency depends on several factors, including:

• Risk assessments (general and fire prevention)
• Equipment type and usage
• Work environment
• Legal and insurance requirements

This could be anything from 3-monthly for power tools on a building site to every 3 years for a well maintained server system in an office building. While regulations don’t specify exact intervals, most businesses arrange annual testing as best practice.

What if our server can’t be turned off?

If you’re concerned about restarting your server, have your IT team check it first. For a full PAT test, the unit must be shut down and unplugged; however, if downtime isn’t possible, we can carry out a detailed visual inspection instead. A full test can then be done at a convenient time with your IT support present.

What if something needs repairing?

We’ll try to fix it on the spot whenever possible.
Standard included repairs:

• Plug and fuse replacements
• Cable repairs
• Basic appliance repairs

More complex work (e.g., full lead replacement or specialist repairs) may incur a separate charge. Failed items must be repaired and retested before being put back into service.

Can you test fixed appliances?

Yes — though fixed appliances (hard-wired items) require different testing. We can perform an earth continuity check during our visit, but full testing may need to be done out of hours to avoid disruption. We recommend these appliances be tested by an electrician as part of your EICR inspection.

What are your payment terms?

Invoices are usually sent the same or next day and due on receipt. Standard terms are 14 days. Payment can be made by bank transfer, cash, or cheque.

You missed an item during testing — what happens?

Let us know right away and we’ll return to test it:

• Our mistake: no charge
• Hidden or off-site item: standard attendance fee applies
  When tested, the item will be added to your existing report.

Do new appliances need PAT testing?

Generally no — new equipment from reputable suppliers should be safe for up to a year. If in doubt, we can test it before use. 

Do you send reminders when testing is due?

Yes — we’ll email reminders 8–12 weeks before your next test is due and offer suitable date options for booking.

Is PAT testing a legal requirement?

There’s no specific law mandating PAT testing, but there is a legal duty to maintain safe electrical equipment under the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989). A valid PAT certificate is the most recognised way to demonstrate compliance.

What is Electrical Equipment Testing?

Electrical Equipment Testing (EET) is the broader term covering all types of electrical inspections, including:

• PAT: for plug-connected (portable) appliances
• FAT (Fixed Appliance Testing): for items hardwired into your electrical system

How can I estimate how many items need testing?

Every detachable mains-powered component must be tested individually — for example, a PC, monitor, and their power leads count as four items. Extension leads and chargers are separate items too. As a guide, allow about 8 items per workstation (PC, monitor, leads, printer, chargers, etc.). So, a 20-desk office would have roughly 160 items.

Why are power leads tested separately?

Detachable leads are tested as separate items because they can fail independently or be swapped between appliances.

How much does PAT testing cost?

Pricing depends on location, quantity, and type of equipment. Please look at our pricing page for more information, or contact us for a quote.

Will I get into trouble if I don’t do PAT testing?

If an electrical accident occurs and you can’t prove your equipment is safe, you may be held liable. PAT testing helps protect you, your staff, and your business from both safety and legal risks.

What if the plug isn’t accessible?

If the plug can’t be reached, we can perform an earth continuity test using the nearest socket or spur.
For hardwired appliances, a fixed appliance test may be required — see our Fixed Appliance Testing page for more details.

Do on-site equipment users need testing too?

Yes. Any third-party equipment used on your premises should be tested — untested gear could pose fire risks or affect insurance coverage.

Can you test microwave ovens for leakage?

Yes. We can include microwave leakage testing on request — just let us know when booking your appointment.