These two get mixed up in almost every landlord conversation, and the confusion costs money in both directions. Some people pay for testing they do not need; others assume they are covered when they are not.
The distinction in one line
Wired in is the EICR. Plugged in is PAT.
| EICR | PAT testing | |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | The fixed installation | Plug-in appliances |
| Legally required | Yes, in England | No blanket requirement |
| Interval | At most every 5 years | Risk based |
| Applies to | Every rented home | Appliances you supply |
What an EICR covers
- The consumer unit and its protective devices
- Fixed wiring in walls, floors and ceilings
- Sockets, switches and light fittings
- Earthing and bonding
- Permanently connected items such as showers, extractor fans and cookers
This is a legal requirement for rented residential property in England, at intervals of no more than five years.
What PAT testing covers
- Appliances you supply, such as a washing machine, fridge or microwave
- Lamps, kettles and other plug-in items you provide
- Anything with a plug that belongs to you rather than the tenant
What you do have is a duty to ensure any electrical appliances you supply are safe. PAT testing is one reasonable way of evidencing that, and it is usually worth doing on a furnished let, but it is not the same duty as the EICR.
The practical answer
- You need an EICR. Every five years at most, no exceptions.
- You probably want PAT testing if the property is furnished or part furnished and you supply appliances.
- You do not need PAT testing for a completely unfurnished let where every appliance belongs to the tenant.
One thing people miss
A tenant’s own appliances are not your responsibility, but a faulty one can still trip protective devices and confuse a later inspection. If a tenant reports repeated tripping, establish whether it is the installation or something they have plugged in before booking work.
