FAQ

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We’ve answered some of the most common questions below. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help.

Q: Can PAT testing damage the equipment being tested?

A:
When carried out correctly by a trained engineer, PAT testing does not damage equipment. The process is designed to check safety without affecting normal operation.
The only risk appears if the wrong test is applied to the wrong type of appliance. For example:
Sensitive IT equipment (like computers, servers and audio gear) should be tested with a low current test to avoid stress on electronic components.
Older or delicate equipment may need a reduced voltage insulation test (250V instead of the standard 500V) to stay safe.
“Flash tests” at very high voltages (1,500V) are never used in routine PAT testing, since they can damage insulation.
At DuoTest we use professional Seaward PrimeTest 350 PAT testers. These instruments allow us to safely select the correct test level for each appliance – including reduced-voltage tests where required – ensuring full compliance while protecting your equipment.

Q: How often should PAT testing be carried out?

A:
There is no single legal rule that says “every 12 months,” but UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) guidance and insurance companies strongly recommend regular testing. The right frequency depends on the type of equipment and where it is used:
Offices & Shops – IT equipment, kettles, printers and extension leads: every 12 months.
Industrial sites & kitchens – portable or handheld appliances: every 6 months.
Construction sites – high-risk tools and leads: as often as every 3 months.
Landlords and HMO properties are usually expected to test appliances annually to protect tenants and stay compliant with letting agents and insurers.
At DuoTest, our certified engineers assess your workplace and select the correct schedule for each type of appliance. Using our Seaward PrimeTest 350 instruments, we can safely test both Class I (earthed) and Class II (double-insulated) appliances, and adjust test voltages where needed. This means your equipment stays safe and compliant without unnecessary downtime.

Q: When is PAT testing required?

A:
UK law does not give a fixed date or interval for PAT testing. What the law does say is that all electrical appliances provided in the workplace or by a landlord must be safe to use. The main regulations that apply are:
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999
PAT testing is the simplest way to prove compliance with these laws, because it provides a certificate and a clear record that equipment was checked by a competent person.
In practice, PAT testing is usually required:
Before new tenants move into a rental property (landlords & HMOs).
As part of annual health & safety checks in offices, schools and workplaces.
Every 3–12 months in higher-risk environments (kitchens, construction, factories).
Whenever equipment is repaired, moved, or suspected to be faulty.
At DuoTest we use Seaward PrimeTest 350 instruments to provide safe and reliable results. Certificates are issued the same day, giving you evidence for insurers, auditors and letting agents.

Q: Who can do PAT testing in the UK?

A:
UK law says PAT testing must be carried out by a “competent person” – someone with the right training, knowledge and equipment to test safely.
In practice this means:
Qualified PAT testers with certification such as City & Guilds 2377.
People with electrical knowledge and training, using professional test instruments.
Employers or landlords who have completed PAT training can test their own equipment, but they must use the correct equipment and keep proper records.
Most businesses and landlords choose to use a specialist PAT testing company like DuoTest, because we provide:
Certified engineers (City & Guilds 2377, DBS checked, fully insured).
Professional Seaward PrimeTest 350 equipment.
Same-day PDF certificates for compliance and insurance.
This ensures appliances are tested safely, results are accurate, and you have official documentation for inspections.

Q: Why is PAT testing important?

A:
PAT testing is important because it keeps people safe, protects businesses from risk, and proves compliance with UK regulations.
Protects lives – Regular testing detects hidden faults such as frayed wires, loose plugs or damaged insulation before they cause electric shocks or fires.
Legal compliance – While the law doesn’t set fixed intervals, UK regulations (Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, Electricity at Work Regulations 1989) require all electrical appliances to be safe. PAT testing provides the documented proof insurers, auditors and letting agents ask for.
Saves money – Identifying faults early prevents breakdowns, reduces costly repairs, and extends the lifespan of appliances.
Builds trust – Showing a valid PAT certificate reassures staff, tenants and customers that your premises are safe and professionally maintained.
At DuoTest, we use certified engineers and Seaward PrimeTest 350 instruments to ensure accurate results and same-day PDF certificates, giving you safety and compliance with no delays.

Q: How much does PAT testing cost?

A:
The cost of PAT testing depends on the number of appliances and the type of site, but at DuoTest we keep pricing simple and transparent:
Landlords / Tenants – from £59 (up to 15 items)
Commercial sites (offices, schools, warehouses) – from £176 (up to 150 items)
Extra items – from £1.00 down to £0.80 per item depending on volume (bulk discounts available)
Emergency Lighting Testing – from £75 per site
Microwave Emission Testing – from £2.50 per unit
All prices include:
Same-day PDF certificates
Fully insured and City & Guilds certified engineers
Free minor repairs (e.g. plug rewiring, fuse replacement)

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