PAT Testing and Business Insurance
Many business insurance policies in the UK require PAT testing — but the specifics are often buried in the small print. Understanding what your insurer expects can prevent a nasty surprise if you ever need to make a claim.
What Insurers Typically Require
Most business insurance policies — particularly public liability, employers liability, and commercial property policies — include conditions around electrical safety. These may specify:
- Regular inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment
- Annual PAT testing (the most common requirement)
- Maintenance of an asset register
- Immediate removal from service of faulty equipment
- A valid EICR for the premises (fixed wiring — separate from PAT)
What Happens if You Do Not Comply
If you have an electrical fire or an employee/customer receives an electric shock, your insurer will investigate. If they find that:
- Your PAT testing is out of date
- You have no record of PAT testing
- The specific appliance that caused the incident was not tested
- A known fault was not addressed
...your claim may be reduced or rejected entirely. The insurer may argue that you failed to meet the conditions of your policy. This could leave you personally liable for compensation, repair costs, and legal fees.
The Moral of the Story
PAT testing is relatively cheap — typically £1-3 per appliance. The cost of having an insurance claim rejected because your testing was out of date could run into thousands or even tens of thousands of pounds. It is one of the most obvious risk-vs-cost calculations in business.
Check Your Policy
Dig out your business insurance policy documents and search for references to electrical testing, PAT testing, portable appliances, and maintenance obligations. If you are unsure what is required, call your insurance broker and ask specifically. Then make sure you comply.
Book Your PAT Test
Contact Green Tag PAT for compliant, documented PAT testing across Greater Manchester and Northwest England. We provide full certificates and asset registers that satisfy insurer requirements.
Need a PAT Test in Greater Manchester?
Based in Salford, covering all of Greater Manchester. From £59, same-day certificates.