Here's a great article written by Mick Jackson of MJ PAT Testing in St Albans as to why PAT testing of appliances is relevant and important for Landlords.
"I know it’s not the sexiest of subjects and eyes tend to
glaze over at the mere mention of Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), but read
on, you may save yourself some money and maybe more!
Firstly let me put things straight, PAT is NOT a legal
requirement for anyone. It never has been nor is it likely to be. Secondly its does not have to be carried out
every year, both of these things have been put out by the more unscrupulous
companies out there touting for your business.
So what is the point in having PAT carried out in the first
place?
There are many rules and regulations that say you are
required to maintain electrical appliances under your control to ensure a safe
environment. None of the regulations give you guidance as to how you manage
this. This is where PAT comes in. It is a standard of inspection and testing of
appliances that meets all the requirements of these regulations and allows you
to know that, at the time of testing, you are complying with the law. You, as
the ‘duty holder’, are responsible for the maintenance of electrical
appliances.
The National Landlords Association recommends that PAT testing is
carried each time a tenancy changes OR every two to three years. Houses of
Multiple Occupation are slightly different and the Local Authority will probably
request that you have PAT testing carried out every year in common areas.
The latest H&S guidance note (107) relating to PAT is
available on the Health and Safety website.
Alternatively please visit the
faq’s section of my website www.mjpat.co.uk
for more information or call me on
07795185619 for free no obligation advice."
