PAT testing generates important compliance records that you may be asked to produce by HSE inspectors, insurance companies, local authority officers, or in legal proceedings. Understanding exactly what records to keep — and for how long — is as important as the testing itself.
What Records Should You Keep?
- The full test certificate from each testing visit
- A complete list of all appliances tested with individual results
- Records of any failed appliances and actions taken
- Evidence of repair and retest for appliances that previously failed
- Details of the testing engineer's qualifications and certification body
- Dates of testing and recommended retest dates
How Long to Keep PAT Testing Records
There is no single legally specified retention period for PAT certificates. Practical guidance: keep records for at least the period between tests plus several years. For businesses, maintain at least 3–5 years of historical records. For landlords, keep records for the entire tenancy plus 6 years. This provides a meaningful audit trail if compliance is ever challenged.
Digital Record Storage
Digital records offer significant advantages over paper — they can't be lost, are easy to search, and can be shared instantly with insurers or inspectors. MES PAT Testing Ltd provides all certificates digitally by email and stores them in a secure online portal. You can retrieve any certificate from any testing visit at any time, for as long as you remain a customer.
Integrating PAT Records Into Your Safety Management System
PAT testing records should be part of a wider health and safety documentation system. Store them alongside your EICR, fire risk assessment, emergency lighting records, and other safety compliance documents. This makes it easy to demonstrate overall compliance during inspections and provides a comprehensive view of your premises' safety status.
