If you run a business, you've likely been asked about both PAT testing and an EICR at some point. They're both electrical certificates, they're both required for business compliance — but they test completely different things. Here's a clear breakdown.
The short answer
EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) — tests the fixed wiring: the consumer unit, circuits, sockets, switches. The stuff permanently built into the building.
PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) — tests portable electrical appliances: computers, printers, kettles, power tools, extension leads — anything you can unplug and move.
If the EICR is checking the road, PAT testing is checking the cars.
What is an EICR?
An EICR is a formal inspection and test of your property's fixed electrical installation. A qualified electrician tests every circuit in the property using calibrated instruments, checking insulation resistance, earthing continuity, circuit protection operation, and polarity.
The result is a detailed written report classifying any issues as C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous), or C3 (improvement recommended). Commercial properties typically need one every 5 years. It's required under the Health and Safety at Work Act for employers.
What is PAT testing?
PAT testing is the inspection and testing of portable electrical appliances used in the workplace. It consists of two parts:
- Visual inspection: checking the plug, cable, and appliance for visible damage
- Instrument tests: checking earth continuity, insulation resistance, and — for some appliances — leakage current
Each appliance that passes gets a dated sticker. Failing appliances are removed from service.
There's no legal requirement to carry out PAT testing at a specific interval, but the Health and Safety at Work Act requires employers to maintain work equipment in a safe condition. PAT testing is the accepted way to demonstrate this for electrical appliances.
Which one do I need?
| Situation | EICR | PAT |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial office | ✓ Every 5 years | ✓ Annually recommended |
| Rental property (landlord) | ✓ Every 5 years (law) | Not required |
| Construction site | ✓ On new installation | ✓ 3-monthly for 110V tools |
| Pub / restaurant | ✓ Every 5 years | ✓ Annually |
| Home-based sole trader | Not required | Recommended if clients visit |
| Owner-occupied home | Recommended every 10 yr | Not required |
What does PAT testing cost?
PAT testing is usually priced per appliance. At Royal Docks Electrical, PAT testing costs £125 + VAT covering your first 20 items, then £1.50 + VAT per item after that. For a typical small office with 20–30 items, the whole visit takes 1–2 hours.
We can combine PAT testing with an EICR visit to reduce call-out costs — call us to arrange.
Do both certificates expire?
An EICR is valid for the period stated on the report (typically 5 years for commercial properties). After that, a new inspection is required — the old certificate is no longer valid.
PAT test stickers show the test date. There's no formal "expiry," but Health and Safety guidance specifies re-testing intervals by equipment type and environment. Office equipment is typically retested annually; construction tools more frequently.
We carry out both PAT testing and EICRs
Fixed prices, certificates within 2 working days, out-of-hours available. PAT testing from £125 + VAT (up to 20 items), POA for commercial EICRs.
Call 020 7473 7807FAQ
No — not at all. They're completely different. A PAT certificate covers portable appliances only. An EICR is the document required under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations (for rental properties) and under general H&S duties for employers. The two cannot substitute for each other.
Yes. Many commercial insurance policies require both an in-date EICR and evidence of PAT testing. It's worth checking your policy wording. Some insurers specify maximum testing intervals (e.g., EICR no older than 5 years, PAT testing within the last 12 months). Failing to comply could affect a claim.
Unlike an EICR (which must be done by a qualified electrician), PAT testing can legally be carried out by any "competent person" — meaning someone who has been trained in the test procedures and understands what they're looking for. In practice, most businesses use a qualified electrician to ensure accuracy and documentation quality. We carry PAT testing equipment on all our vans.
Need appliances tested? See our PAT testing service for pricing and same-week bookings.