PAT testing is an essential compliance requirement, but there are legitimate ways to manage and reduce its cost without cutting corners on quality. Here are the most effective strategies.
Rationalise Your Appliance Inventory
Before your next PAT test, take stock of every appliance in your premises. Remove any that are no longer needed, broken and awaiting disposal, or duplicates. Fewer appliances mean a lower testing bill. It's also a good opportunity to identify and properly dispose of old, potentially unsafe appliances.
Use Risk-Based Testing Intervals
Not all equipment needs testing every year. Under the IET Code of Practice, low-risk equipment such as desktop computers and monitors can be tested every 4 years with annual visual checks. Using a risk-based approach — testing high-risk items frequently and low-risk items less often — can significantly reduce the annual cost of PAT testing.
Volume Discounts and Annual Contracts
Per-appliance rates fall significantly with volume. If you can consolidate testing for multiple sites or departments into a single visit, you'll benefit from better rates. Annual contracts also typically offer lower rates than one-off visits. Committing to an annual programme with MES PAT Testing Ltd ensures you get the best available pricing.
Bundle Services
Combining PAT testing with other services — such as emergency lighting testing or fixed wire testing (EICR) — in a single visit can reduce overall cost. You pay one call-out charge, the engineer is already on site, and the paperwork is consolidated. Ask about bundled service packages when you enquire.
