Being a landlord comes with various responsibilities, including ensuring the safety of your tenants. Electrical safety is a crucial aspect of any rental property, and as a landlord, you need to make sure that your property meets the necessary standards. Two essential electrical safety checks that landlords must carry out are PAT testing and EICR. In this guide, we will explain the difference between PAT testing and EICR, and why both are crucial for your rental property.

What is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is an essential electrical safety check that ensures all portable electrical appliances in a rental property are safe for use. The purpose of PAT testing is to prevent electrical accidents caused by faulty appliances. A qualified electrician performs PAT testing by visually inspecting each appliance for any damage or wear and tear. They also perform tests using specialised equipment to ensure the appliances are electrically safe. PAT testing is required at regular intervals, depending on the type of appliance and its usage.

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What is EICR?

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a comprehensive electrical safety check that examines the fixed electrical installations in a rental property. EICR covers all aspects of the electrical system, including the wiring, sockets, switches, lighting, and consumer units. The purpose of EICR is to identify any electrical faults or defects that may pose a risk to the occupants of the property. A qualified electrician performs EICR by visually inspecting all electrical components and testing them using specialised equipment. EICR is required at regular intervals to ensure the safety of the property.

Difference between PAT Testing and EICR:

Although both PAT testing and EICR are essential electrical safety checks, they differ in terms of scope and purpose. Here are the key differences between the two:

Scope:

PAT testing covers only portable electrical appliances, while EICR covers all fixed electrical installations in a rental property.

Purpose:

The purpose of PAT testing is to ensure the safety of portable electrical appliances, while the purpose of EICR is to ensure the safety of fixed electrical installations in a rental property.

Frequency and Cost:

PAT testing is required at regular intervals, depending on the type of appliance and its usage. EICR is required at least every five years, and in some cases, more frequently, depending on the age and condition 

The cost of PAT testing is typically lower than the cost of EICR, as it covers a smaller scope.

FAQs:

Q: Is PAT testing a legal requirement for landlords?

A: PAT testing is not a legal requirement for landlords, but it is recommended as a part of their duty of care to tenants.

Q: Is EICR a legal requirement for landlords?

A: Yes, EICR is a legal requirement for landlords. Since June 2020, landlords in England must have an EICR carried out every five years or more frequently, depending on the condition of the electrical installations.

Q: Can I perform PAT testing and EICR myself?

A: No, PAT testing and EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician.

Q: What happens if I don’t carry out PAT testing and EICR?

A: If you don’t carry out PAT testing and EICR, you are putting your tenants at risk of electrical accidents. You may also be breaking the law and could face significant fines or legal action.

Conclusion:

As a landlord, you have a duty of care to ensure the safety of your tenants, and electrical safety is a crucial aspect of that responsibility. PAT testing and EICR are two essential electrical safety checks that you must carry out to ensure your property meets the necessary standards. While PAT testing covers only portable appliances, EICR covers all fixed electrical installations. Both tests are crucial for the safety of your tenants and compliance with legal requirements. Remember to hire a qualified electrician to carry out these tests and ensure that they are carried out at the required intervals. By prioritizing electrical safety in your rental property, you can protect your tenants and avoid potential legal consequences.

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