How Much Does PAT Testing Cost? UK Pricing Guide

PAT Testing Costs: What You Should Expect to Pay

PAT testing costs vary depending on the number of appliances, location, type of equipment, and the company you choose. This guide gives you a realistic picture of what PAT testing should cost in the UK, so you can spot both overcharging and suspiciously cheap quotes.

Typical Pricing Structures

PAT testing companies generally price in one of two ways:

Per appliance: Typically £1-3 per item, with the price decreasing as the number of items increases. For example:

• 1-50 appliances: £2-3 per item
• 50-100 appliances: £1.50-2.50 per item
• 100-250 appliances: £1-2 per item
• 250+ appliances: £0.80-1.50 per item

Minimum call-out charge: Many testers have a minimum charge (typically £40-80) regardless of how few items need testing. This covers travel time and the fixed cost of attending your premises.

What Affects the Price

• Number of appliances: More items = lower cost per item
• Type of equipment: Simple visual+earth+insulation tests on a kettle are faster than comprehensive testing of a 3-phase industrial machine
• Access: If appliances are spread across multiple floors, locked rooms, or require equipment to be unplugged from complex setups, it takes longer
• Location: Rural locations may attract higher call-out charges
• Documentation: Basic labelling and a certificate is standard. Detailed asset registers with barcode tracking cost more

Red Flags: Too Cheap

Be cautious of extremely cheap quotes (under £0.50 per item). This can indicate:

• Visual inspection only — no actual electrical testing performed
• Using uncalibrated or outdated test equipment
• Testing only a sample rather than every appliance
• No proper documentation or certificates
• Uninsured or unqualified operators

Red Flags: Too Expensive

Equally, if you are being quoted £5+ per appliance for straightforward office equipment, you are likely overpaying. Get at least three quotes.

Our Pricing

At Green Tag PAT, we offer transparent, competitive pricing across Greater Manchester and Northwest England. Contact us for a free quote based on your specific requirements — we are always happy to explain exactly what is included.