PAT & Fixed Alliance Testing
Via the the changes to the Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment also commonly known as “Pat Testing” in the 5th Edition Code of Practice there has been some changes.
As a result, under the CoP portable and fixed appliances have now to be tested . So, what is a fixed appliance ?
- Cookers
- Electric Ovens
- Gas/Electric Hobs
- Storage & Wall Heaters
As the duty holder the landlord /letting agent are required to assess the risk of their property . They can define the retest intervals via a risk assessment . So, if the property is in good condition and has good tenants then testing to 18 months or 2 yearly is acceptable . Also the testing company may no longer log a re-test date on the equipment label.
Documentation
Documentation is supplied via electronic format. This includes the following:-
- PAT testing certificate. This records the equipment status and test results.
- PAT equipment register. This records and lists the equipment within the property.
- PAT faulty equipment register. This in addition helps to document any faulty equipment for audit purposes.
- PAT repaired equipment register. This records any repairs for audit purposes.
- PAT tester calibration certificate. This is to certify that the test instrument is within calibration.
- City & Guilds. Qualification of the individual conducting the test This confirms the tester is qualified
Click on these links below for an example of documentation.
FAQ
Landlords
You need to assess the condition of the property along with the electrical equipment and what type of tenants you have. Having long term tenants who look after your property you may feel the test interval should be 18 months. If you have a steady turnover of tenants in a year then every 12 months would be advisable.
No just give me the tenants contact details and I will organise the access and report back to you.
The electrical equipment supplied by the landlord should be the only items tested. AEW creates an equipment asset register to ensure there is an audit trail for any third party.
The likes of a damaged plug top or the wrong fuse does not mean an automatic fail. During testing, these can be replaced . Then I record it on the repaired equipment log for audit purposes.
Fitting the correct fuse rating in a plug top.
USB memory sticks are used regularly to back up the files. I will email you and your letting agent if applicable a pdf copy of the documentation for your perusal and records.
Letting Agents
Not really you can inform them that you want to use another contractor that suits you just as long as you keep them updated.
Basically both as I can organise access with the tenant or utilise the key safe box. Keeping the letting agent informed is a must.
Yes, of course as they need to keep a record for audit purposes.
Exclusions
Short Term Lets (SLT) & House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) are by City of Edinburgh Council requires annual or yearly testing for these types of properties.
Generally poor access can exclude a minority of equipment being tested. But when it comes to the local council’s audit or inspection of a rental property there has to be a good reason for not testing fixed equipment