After a PAT test, you receive a certificate documenting the results. Understanding what this certificate shows — and how to use it effectively — is important for compliance and insurance purposes.
What Does a PAT Test Certificate Contain?
- Business name and address of the premises tested
- Date of testing
- Name and qualifications of the testing engineer
- List of all appliances tested with individual results
- Test results (pass/fail) for each appliance
- Details of any failures and recommendations
- Retest date recommendations
- Engineer's signature and certification body details
The Appliance Labels
As well as the overall certificate, each appliance receives an individual label showing whether it passed or failed, the date of testing, and when it should next be tested. Green labels typically indicate a pass; red labels indicate a fail. These labels provide an at-a-glance indication of appliance safety status for employees and inspectors.
How Long is a PAT Certificate Valid?
There is no fixed legal validity period for PAT certificates. The 'valid until' date on appliance labels reflects the recommended next testing date based on risk assessment — not a hard legal expiry. However, for insurance and compliance purposes, keeping certificates current (retesting at recommended intervals) is strongly advised.
How to Store Your Certificates
Store PAT certificates securely and accessibly. HSE inspectors or insurance assessors may ask to see them. MES PAT Testing Ltd provides all certificates digitally by email and also stores them in our secure online portal, allowing you to retrieve any historical certificate at any time. Keep physical copies in a designated safety records file if preferred.
When Do You Need to Show Your Certificates?
- During HSE inspection visits
- When renewing business insurance policies
- During fire safety inspections
- When applying for or renewing HMO licences
- During Ofsted inspections (for schools)
- When tenants or employees request evidence of compliance
