What the rules say
HSE is clear that the law does not make PAT testing a legal requirement. You must still keep the appliances you provide safe, and the GOV.UK fire guide says they should be checked periodically.
What to do
- Keep an inventory of appliances you provide.
- Get them tested and labelled.
- Remove anything with a damaged plug or lead straight away.
Elsewhere in the UK
Scotland: A PAT report on the appliances you supply, no more than 5 years old and with each item labelled, is a mandatory licence condition.
Tips from the field
- Register new appliances with the manufacturer so you hear about recalls.
Common questions
Is PAT testing a legal requirement for holiday lets?
In England and Wales, no. HSE says the law requires the electrical equipment you provide to be kept safe, not tested in a particular way. In Scotland, a PAT report is a mandatory condition of the short-term let licence. Everywhere, testing is the easiest way to show you have kept appliances safe, and many insurers and letting agencies expect it.
How often should holiday let appliances be tested?
There is no fixed interval in law, so base it on risk. Items guests move around and use a lot, such as kettles, toasters, hairdryers and irons, need checking more often than a built-in fridge. Many hosts test every year or two and do a quick visual check at each changeover. For a Scottish licence, the PAT report must be no more than 5 years old.
Can I PAT test my own appliances?
You can do the regular visual checks yourself: look for damaged leads, cracked plugs, scorch marks and loose cables. HSE says a sensible person with enough knowledge can do visual inspections, but full inspection and testing needs the right equipment and the training to read the results. For a record your insurer or council will accept, use someone with PAT training.
Do brand new appliances need PAT testing?
No. HSE says new equipment should be supplied in a safe condition, so a visual check for damage is enough. Add it to your appliance list so it is included at the next test.
How much does PAT testing cost for a holiday let?
Usually about £1 to £3 per item, often with a minimum charge of £60 to £100. Ask your electrician to do it on the same visit as your EICR to save a call-out.
What should I do if an appliance fails?
Take it out of use straight away, before the next guests arrive, and repair or replace it. Keep a note of what you did with your records.
Related guides
Related articles
Official sources
Costs are typical 2025/26 prices, not official figures. This is general information, not legal advice. Last checked 26 Sept 2026.