Why is a PAT test a requirement for rental properties?

A general misconception amongst landlords is that there aren’t any portable appliances in their property and therefore a PAT (Portable Appliance Test) is not required, as many properties are rented as unfurnished, although in most cases white goods are provided.

White goods such as washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, fridge freezers and portable heaters are actually classed as portable appliances. Not only that but these appliances have a higher probability of faulting with 1 in 7 of all accidental dwelling fires caused by faulty appliances and leads.

As you can imagine we have had numerous examples over the years but one that stands out was with a Landlord from Manchester who agreed to have an additional PAT carried out at his property, along with the scheduled yearly gas safety check. Whilst on site, the engineer reported back that there was an issue with the fridge/freezer and deemed the appliance unsafe to use. The appliance was disconnected onsite and the tenants were informed not to use it. The landlord was grateful for the information and proceeded to replace the appliance. This highlights the importance of a PAT test and a proactive approach which subsequently reduced the likelihood of an appliance fire.

The risks we take by not assuring our portable appliances (and white goods) are safe to use regularly are too great to consider. Combining checks like these with your annual Gas Safe Checks are a great way to avoid disruption to your tenants while keeping them and your property safe.

The best way of ensuring that your appliances are safe is to have a PAT test carried out on them. This is a good way for landlords to ensure that they are meeting their legal obligations to maintain high standards of electrical safety in their rented property. Speak to your local branch to organise PAT's for your property, or properties. We can take care of this for you, just speak to your dedicated Property Manager.