PAT Testing Course
As we enter 2026, electrical safety remains a top priority for landlords and holiday let owners across the UK. Whether you’re managing long-term rentals, HMOs, or short-term holiday properties (like Airbnbs or self-catering cottages), you have a legal duty under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to ensure any portable electrical appliances you supply – such as kettles, toasters, lamps, microwaves, TVs, or vacuum cleaners – are safe and well-maintained. Enrolling in a PAT Testing Course can help you fulfill these responsibilities effectively.
While Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) itself isn’t a strict legal requirement in most cases (except in Scotland for rentals and some licensed properties), it’s widely recognised as the best way to demonstrate compliance, protect tenants/guests, satisfy insurers, and avoid potential liability if something goes wrong. Faulty appliances contribute to thousands of fires and accidents each year, and having records of regular checks provides strong evidence of due diligence.
The Rising Cost of Outsourcing PAT Testing
Professional PAT testing typically costs £1–£3 per appliance (plus a call-out fee of £50–£100), depending on location and volume. For those considering a PAT Testing Course, understanding these cost implications is crucial.
For a typical furnished rental or holiday home with 15–30 appliances:
- Small property (10–15 items): £80–£150 + VAT per visit.
- Larger or multi-property portfolio: £200–£400+ annually if tested every 1–2 years.
Over time, especially for multiple properties or frequent changeovers in holiday lets (where appliances see heavier use), these costs add up quickly – often hundreds or thousands of pounds per year. Plus, scheduling external engineers can disrupt tenancies or bookings.
The Smart Alternative: Train to Do It Yourself
Good news: You don’t need to be a qualified electrician to perform PAT testing.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that testing can be carried out by any “competent person” with the right knowledge, training, and equipment. Many landlords and holiday home owners successfully handle it in-house after completing a straightforward competency course on PAT Testing.
Our online PAT Testing Course is designed exactly for this – empowering you to confidently inspect, test, and record your own appliances.
It’s practical, flexible e-learning that covers:
- Visual inspections (spotting damage, wear, or faults).
- Formal testing using a PAT tester (earth continuity, insulation resistance, etc.).
- Risk assessment and frequency guidelines.
- Record-keeping and labelling for compliance.
The course is fully accredited, takes just a few hours to complete, and provides a certificate of competence – perfect for your records and insurance purposes.
Enrol in our PAT Testing Course here
Why It’s Especially Cost-Effective for Landlords and Holiday Home Owners
- One-time investment: The course is affordable and pays for itself after just one or two properties (no ongoing engineer fees).
- Savings scale with your portfolio: Manage 5+ properties? You’ll save thousands over the years.
- Convenience: Test at your schedule – between tenancies, during inspections, or for holiday lets with high turnover.
- Buy basic equipment: A decent PAT tester costs £200–£500 (one-off purchase), and you’ll recoup that quickly.
- Peace of mind: Demonstrate proactive safety management, reduce fire risks, and keep guests/tenants happy with a thorough PAT Testing Course.
Many of our course graduates – from private landlords to holiday let managers – report massive savings and greater control over compliance.
Ready to Take Control of Your Electrical Safety?
Don’t let recurring costs eat into your profits. Invest in competence today and handle PAT testing yourself – safely, legally, and affordably.
Enrol now: PAT Testing E-Learning Course
This course ties perfectly into our wider range of health and safety e-learning, including IOSH Managing Safely – ideal for overall property management skills.
Questions? Drop a comment or message us – we’re here to help keep your properties safe and compliant in 2026!
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