Tuesday 9 June 2015

Should you PAT test? by Mick Jackson of MJ PAT Testing

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."

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