PAT Testing for HMOs: Is It Required and How Often?
Quick answer
No regulation names PAT testing as a landlord duty, but appliances you supply must be safe, and a dated test record is the clearest evidence. Annual testing is common practice in HMOs, and many councils expect to see it.
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) checks that electrical appliances you provide, such as kettles, microwaves, fridges, toasters and lamps, are safe to use. In a shared house, where several tenants share the same appliances, it is a sensible and widely expected part of the safety pack.
Is PAT testing a legal requirement?
There is no single regulation that says landlords must PAT test. However, landlords must ensure that appliances they supply are safe, and a dated record of testing is the most practical way to show that. Many councils ask for it as part of HMO licensing, and insurers sometimes ask too.
What is tested
- A visual inspection of the appliance, plug, flex and casing.
- Electrical tests such as earth continuity and insulation resistance, depending on the appliance class.
- A pass or fail label with the test date.
- A written record listing every item tested.
Communal kitchen items usually form the longest list in a shared house. See our PAT testing for London HMOs.
How often?
Annual testing is common practice for landlord-supplied appliances in HMOs because of the heavy use. Lower-risk items can sometimes be tested less often, and the tester can advise on a sensible schedule. Tenant-owned appliances are not your responsibility.
PAT testing is not the same as an EICR
PAT checks portable appliances; the EICR tests the fixed wiring in the building. A property can pass one and fail the other, so HMOs normally need both. See how often an HMO needs an EICR.
Making it easier
- Line up the appliances you supply before the tester arrives.
- Replace anything visibly damaged first.
- Align PAT with the annual gas check so you only arrange one set of visits.
What happens if an appliance fails?
It is labelled as failed and should be removed from use until it is repaired or replaced. Keep the record to show the action you took.
How much does it cost?
PAT testing in a London shared house typically costs £95–£130. Get a fixed quote, or see the Full Licence Pack from £795, which includes it.
Frequently asked questions
Are tenant appliances covered?
No. Only appliances you provide are your responsibility.
Do new appliances need testing?
New appliances are usually fine on purchase, but record them so your list is complete and test them at the next round.
Does PAT testing replace the EICR?
No. They check different things.
Sources and further reading
Related guides
- HMO landlord certificates checklist
- How often does an HMO need an EICR?
- HMO certificate costs in London
- HMO licence renewal checklist
Need this arranged in one go? Get a fixed quote or call 07506 892739. We confirm the price and the earliest visit before you commit, and your report arrives digitally, usually within 24 hours of the visit.
This guide is general information for landlords in England, not legal advice. Councils set their own HMO licence conditions, so check your borough’s requirements before you apply or renew.
