AN ELECTRICAL CASE STUDY: A CALLOUT TO A STUDENT LET IN MUSWELL HILL SHOWS THE NEED FOR PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT).

One of our electricians recently responded to a callout by a private landlord to his student let house in Muswell Hill that apparently had no power. On entering the Edwardian house, our electrician was greeted by a group of excitable students and the smell of burning rubber.  The students had been using an old fan heater supplied with the house that had shorted, melting an internal part causing the smell, and tripped the switch on the main fuse board.

The law says that landlords need to maintain high standards of electrical safety in their properties.

This is not the first time that SOR Electrical has had this problem with faulty or worn electrical appliances in let properties, and in this instance it really illustrates the need for landlords to have periodic Portable Appliance Testing (PAT).  To ensure the safety of tenants, the law says that landlords should supply electrical appliances that meet essential safety requirements, are in good condition and comply with the latest British standards. It’s therefore advisable to have all electrical appliances checked on a regular basis by a qualified electrician, and obtain documentation to confirm that this has been done.

What electrical appliances are included in Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?

A portable or movable electric appliance is any item that can be moved, and either connected or disconnected from an electrical supply. Portable or movable items generally have a lead (cable) and a plug.

Portable and movable equipment can therefore include most movable appliances from kettles, toasters, vacuum cleaners, irons, fan heaters through to washing machines, fridges, tumble dryers and electric cookers.

What does PAT Testing involve?

To establish the safety and suitability of electrical appliances, our electricians will do a visual inspection of some appliances, their plugs and leads, and certain appliances (ie. appliances that require an earth), will require test signals injected into the appliance and its cable to ensure its integrity.

How often should PAT testing be done?

Although the law does not state how often PAT testing needs to be done, SOR Electrical suggests at least every 1-2 years to ensure that you are meeting your legal obligations to maintain high standards of electrical safety in your rented property.

What will you receive after the PAT test is completed?

Upon completion of your PAT inspection by a qualified SOR Electrician, you’ll receive a report that details the following:

• An inventory containing each appliance type, name, location and description
• Test results for each appliance tested
• A list of any failed items with an explanation of their failure
• A visible pass or fail label on each appliance detailing the inspection date, next test due and the electrician’s signature.

And if you’re not technically aware then our electrician will be happy to talk you through the report and advise you of any further action that might need to be taken.

If you think you might need your portable electrical appliances tested (PAT), please give SOR Electrical a call and we’ll set up an appointment for one of our qualified Muswell Hill electricians to visit your property.