How to Choose a PAT Testing Company: What to Look For

How to Choose a PAT Testing Company

The PAT testing industry is unregulated — anyone can buy a tester and call themselves a PAT testing company. This means the quality of service varies enormously. Here is what to look for when choosing a PAT testing company, and the red flags that should make you walk away.

Essential Qualifications

While there is no legal requirement for a specific qualification, a competent PAT tester should have:

• City & Guilds 2377 (PAT Testing) or equivalent — this is the industry-standard qualification
• Understanding of the IET Code of Practice — the definitive guidance document for in-service inspection and testing
• Electrical knowledge — PAT testing is not just pressing buttons on a machine. A good tester understands electrical theory, can identify faults beyond what the machine detects, and can advise on remedial action

Insurance

Your PAT testing company should carry:

• Public liability insurance — typically £1-5 million minimum
• Professional indemnity insurance — covers them if they make an error (pass an unsafe appliance or fail a safe one)

Ask for proof of insurance. Any reputable company will be happy to provide it.

Calibrated Equipment

PAT testing instruments must be regularly calibrated to ensure accurate results. Ask when their equipment was last calibrated — it should be within the last 12 months. Reputable testers will have calibration certificates available.

What You Should Receive

After testing, you should receive:

• Individual pass/fail labels on every tested appliance
• A full asset register listing every appliance, its location, and its test result
• A certificate of testing
• Details of any failed items and the nature of the faults

Red Flags

• Cannot provide proof of qualifications or insurance
• Uses uncalibrated or very old test equipment
• Quotes an unusually low price (cutting corners)
• Tests appliances without removing them from use or unplugging them
• Does not provide documentation or labels
• Cannot explain what tests they perform or why

Why Choose Green Tag PAT

Green Tag PAT is fully qualified, insured, and equipped with calibrated testing instruments. We provide comprehensive documentation and transparent pricing across Greater Manchester and Northwest England. Contact us for a quote.