What Is PAT Testing?
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is the examination of electrical equipment to ensure it’s safe for use in the workplace. For Leeds businesses, understanding PAT testing requirements and costs helps you stay compliant, protect your employees, and avoid potential liability issues.
This guide explains everything Leeds business owners need to know about PAT testing in 2026 – from legal requirements to costs, and how to keep your workplace electrically safe.
Legal Requirements for UK Businesses
There’s a common misconception that PAT testing is a legal requirement in itself. The reality is more nuanced:
What the Law Actually Says
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to ensure all electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition. However, the regulations don’t specifically mention PAT testing or prescribe how you achieve this.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 adds a general duty to ensure employee safety, which includes electrical equipment.
Why PAT Testing Matters
While not explicitly required by law, PAT testing is the industry-standard method of demonstrating that you’ve met your legal obligations. If an employee or visitor were injured by faulty equipment, you’d need to prove you took reasonable steps to ensure safety. PAT test records provide this evidence.
Who Needs PAT Testing?
Essentially any business with employees using electrical equipment:
- Offices: Computers, monitors, kettles, desk fans
- Retail: Till equipment, display lighting, staff appliances
- Hospitality: Kitchen equipment, coffee machines, hair dryers
- Construction: Power tools, site equipment, extension leads
- Healthcare: Medical devices, patient equipment
- Education: IT equipment, workshop tools, lab equipment
- Landlords: Appliances provided with rental properties
How Often Is PAT Testing Required?
Testing frequency depends on the equipment type and working environment. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidance, though these are recommendations rather than legal requirements:
Office Equipment (Low Risk)
- Desktop computers, monitors: Every 4-5 years
- Photocopiers, printers: Every 4-5 years
- Kettles, microwaves: Every 2-3 years
- Extension leads (static): Every 4-5 years
Portable Equipment (Medium Risk)
- Laptops, phone chargers: Every 2-3 years
- Vacuum cleaners: Every 1-2 years
- Extension leads (moved frequently): Every 1-2 years
- Floor-standing fans: Every 2 years
Hand-Held Equipment (Higher Risk)
- Power tools: Every 6-12 months
- Hair dryers, straighteners: Every 6-12 months
- Kitchen appliances: Every 6-12 months
- Floor polishers: Every 6-12 months
Construction Site Equipment (High Risk)
- 110V site tools: Every 3 months
- Site extension leads: Every 3 months
- Site transformers: Every 3 months
Equipment Hired Out
- All hire equipment: Before each hire
What Equipment Needs Testing?
PAT testing applies to portable electrical appliances – essentially anything with a plug that can be moved. This includes:
Class I Equipment (Earthed)
Equipment with metal parts that relies on an earth connection for safety:
- Kettles and toasters
- Washing machines
- Some power tools
- Desktop computers
- Refrigerators
Class II Equipment (Double Insulated)
Equipment with extra insulation that doesn’t require earthing:
- Most phone chargers
- Many power tools
- Hair dryers
- Some TVs and monitors
- Laptop power supplies
What Doesn’t Need Testing?
- Fixed wiring (covered by EICR instead)
- Equipment owned by employees (though best practice is to include it)
- Battery-powered devices (unless they have a mains charger)
The PAT Testing Process Explained
PAT testing involves both visual inspection and electrical tests. A competent tester will:
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Before any electrical tests, the tester examines:
- Cable condition – looking for cuts, abrasions, or exposed wires
- Plug condition – checking for cracks, burn marks, or bent pins
- Correct fuse rating
- Cable grip – ensuring the cable is secure
- Signs of overheating or damage
- Suitability for the environment
Many faults are identified through visual inspection alone – it’s often the most important part of the test.
Step 2: Electrical Tests
Using a PAT tester, the following electrical tests are performed:
- Earth continuity: Checks the earth connection is intact (Class I only)
- Insulation resistance: Verifies insulation is preventing current leakage
- Lead polarity: Ensures live and neutral are correctly connected
- Functional tests: Confirms the equipment operates correctly
Step 3: Labelling and Recording
Appliances that pass are labelled with:
- Test date
- Next test due date
- Unique asset number
- Tester identification
Failed items are labelled as failed and should be removed from service until repaired or replaced.
PAT Testing Costs in Leeds
PAT testing is typically charged per item tested, with discounts for larger quantities. Here’s what Leeds businesses can expect to pay in 2026:
Cost Per Item
- 1-50 items: £1.50-2.50 per item
- 51-100 items: £1.20-2.00 per item
- 101-250 items: £1.00-1.50 per item
- 250+ items: £0.80-1.20 per item
Minimum Charges
Most PAT testing companies have a minimum charge of £50-80 to cover travel and setup time. This makes it more cost-effective to test multiple items at once rather than calling out for small quantities.
What Affects the Price?
- Number of items: More items = lower per-item cost
- Equipment accessibility: Scattered equipment takes longer to test
- Location: Travel time to your premises
- Testing schedule: Regular contracts often attract discounts
- Record format: Digital records may cost extra
Example Costs for Leeds Businesses
- Small office (25 items): £50-75
- Medium office (75 items): £90-150
- Retail shop (100 items): £100-180
- Restaurant (150 items): £150-225
- Small factory (300 items): £240-400
Records and Documentation
Keeping proper records is essential for demonstrating compliance. Good PAT testing records should include:
Required Information
- Description of each appliance
- Unique identification number
- Date of test
- Test results (pass/fail)
- Name of tester
- Next test due date
Record Keeping Options
- Paper certificates: Traditional but can be lost or damaged
- Digital spreadsheets: Easy to search and update
- Cloud-based systems: Access anywhere, automatic reminders
- Testing company portals: Many providers offer online record access
How Long to Keep Records
There’s no legal minimum, but best practice is to keep records for at least 5 years. This provides a history showing consistent maintenance and helps identify equipment that repeatedly fails.
DIY vs Professional PAT Testing
Can you do PAT testing yourself? Technically yes, but there are important considerations:
DIY Testing
Pros:
- Lower ongoing costs if you have many items
- Test whenever convenient
- Quick response to new equipment
Cons:
- Equipment costs (£200-500+ for a decent tester)
- Training requirements
- Time away from core business
- May not be accepted by insurers
- No independent verification
Professional Testing
Pros:
- Trained and experienced testers
- Professional certification
- Independent verification
- Usually accepted by insurers
- No equipment investment
Cons:
- Ongoing service costs
- Need to schedule visits
- May disrupt operations
Our Recommendation
For most Leeds businesses, professional PAT testing makes sense. The cost is modest, the results are more likely to be accepted by insurers, and you get independent verification of safety. DIY testing may suit large organisations with dedicated facilities management staff.
What Happens If Equipment Fails?
When an appliance fails PAT testing:
- Remove from service immediately – Tag it clearly as failed
- Assess repair vs replacement – Minor faults like damaged cables are often repairable
- Repair by qualified person – Not all faults can be DIY fixed
- Retest after repair – Before returning to service
- Dispose safely if unrepairable – WEEE regulations apply
JP Electrical’s PAT Testing Service
At JP Electrical & EV Solutions, we provide comprehensive PAT testing for Leeds businesses of all sizes. Our service includes:
- Qualified testers: All testing carried out by trained professionals
- Flexible scheduling: Including out-of-hours to minimise disruption
- Clear labelling: All items clearly marked with test status
- Digital records: Full documentation provided
- Honest advice: Practical guidance on testing frequency
- Combined services: Offer discounts when combined with EICR testing
We work with offices, retail, hospitality, education, and industrial businesses across Leeds and West Yorkshire.
Book PAT Testing for Your Business
Whether you need annual testing for an office or quarterly testing for a workshop, we provide reliable, affordable PAT testing that keeps your business compliant.
Ready to book? Contact JP Electrical today on 0113 733 7533 for a free quote. We’ll assess your needs and provide a clear price with no hidden costs.
Don’t leave electrical safety to chance. Regular PAT testing protects your employees, your customers, and your business. Get in touch today to arrange testing at a time that suits you.