What Is a PAT Certificate?
A PAT certificate (also called a PAT test certificate) is a formal document issued after portable appliance testing is completed. It provides a complete record of all appliances tested, their individual results, and confirms whether each item passed or failed the inspection. It serves as your proof of compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
What Does a PAT Test Certificate Include?
A comprehensive PAT certificate should include:
- Client details — Your business name and premises address
- Date of test — When the inspection was carried out
- Appliance inventory — Full list of every item tested
- Test results — Pass or fail for each individual appliance
- Visual inspection results — Check of plug, lead, casing condition
- Earth continuity — Resistance measurements for each appliance
- Insulation resistance — Test readings for each item
- Engineer details — Tester name and certification number
- Next test due date — Recommended retest date
How Long Is a PAT Test Valid For?
A PAT certificate is typically valid for 12 months for general workplaces. However, the specific validity period depends on your business type and risk assessment:
- Offices — 2-4 years for IT equipment, annual for kitchen appliances
- Restaurants & Cafes — 6-12 months
- Construction sites — 3 months
- Retail shops — 1-2 years
- HMOs / Landlord properties — Annual
Your PAT certificate will show the recommended retest date — use this as your guide for scheduling your next test. See our full PAT testing frequency guide for more details.
PAT Certificate Cost
The cost of PAT testing depends on the number of appliances and the complexity of the job. Here are typical prices for Nottingham businesses:
- Small office (up to 100 appliances): £80-£150
- Medium business (100-300 appliances): £150-£300
- Large premises (300+ appliances): Bespoke quote
- Additional services (EICR, emergency lighting): Priced separately
Get a free quote for your specific premises — no obligation, no hidden fees.
Why Do I Need a PAT Certificate?
Beyond the legal requirement, a valid PAT certificate is essential for:
- Insurance compliance — Most policies require evidence of regular testing
- HSE inspections — Proof you're meeting your legal duty
- Tenant safety — For landlords letting properties
- Employee safety — Demonstrates your duty of care
- Audit trail — Records of equipment maintenance history
PAT Certificate FAQs
Do I need a PAT certificate for my business insurance?
Yes. Most UK business insurance policies require evidence of regular PAT testing. If there's an electrical fire and you can't produce a valid PAT certificate, your insurer may refuse your claim.
Can I get a PAT certificate online?
You can't get a valid PAT certificate without a physical inspection. The equipment must be tested on site by a competent person. However, once completed, your certificate is typically provided in digital format for easy storage and sharing.
How do I get a PAT certificate in Nottingham?
Simply request a free quote and we'll match you with a local City & Guilds 2377 certified engineer. They'll visit your premises, carry out the testing, and provide your certificate — usually within a few days.