PAT Testing Certificates Explained
After a PAT test, you receive several documents. Understanding what these documents are, what they contain, and how to use them is important for maintaining your compliance records and satisfying inspectors and insurers.
What You Receive
After testing by Green Tag PAT, you receive:
- Certificate of Testing: A formal document confirming that testing was carried out at your premises on a specific date, by a named and qualified tester, using calibrated equipment.
- Asset Register / Schedule of Results: A detailed list of every appliance tested, including its unique ID number, description, location, and individual pass/fail result with test readings.
- Labels on Equipment: Every tested appliance has a physical label applied showing its pass/fail status, test date, and next test due date.
- Failed Items Report: If any appliances failed, you receive details of which items failed and the specific reasons for failure.
How Long is a PAT Certificate Valid?
Technically, a PAT certificate does not expire - it is a record of testing carried out on a specific date. However, the next test due date on your appliance labels indicates when re-testing is recommended. For most businesses, this is 12 months from the test date.
Your insurance company may specify how old your PAT certificate can be. If your policy says annual PAT testing is required, you need to re-test before the 12-month mark.
Why Your Certificate Matters
Insurance claims: If there is an electrical incident at your premises, your insurer will ask for your PAT testing records. Without a current certificate, your claim may be rejected.
Inspections: Environmental Health Officers, HSE inspectors, Ofsted (for childcare), CQC (for healthcare), and fire officers may all request evidence of electrical testing during inspections.
Landlord obligations: If you are a landlord providing furnished accommodation, PAT testing certificates demonstrate you have met your duty of care regarding electrical appliances.
Due diligence: In the event of legal action following an electrical injury, your PAT testing records demonstrate that you took reasonable steps to maintain equipment safety.
Storing Your Records
Keep your PAT testing certificates and asset registers for at least 5 years. Store them alongside your other compliance documents - fire risk assessments, EICR certificates, gas safety records, and insurance policies.
Get Certified
Contact Green Tag PAT for comprehensive PAT testing with full documentation across Greater Manchester and Northwest England.
Need a PAT Test in Greater Manchester?
Based in Salford, covering all of Greater Manchester. From £59, digital certificates.