EICR and PAT - how can they be used together?

What is the difference between EICR and PAT, and how can you use them together to keep your property safe? We’ll look at the differences and similarities in this article.

Whether you’re the duty holder for a business or a landlord with a portfolio of properties, electrical safety is critical.

You may have heard of tests that need to be carried out, like PAT testing and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR).

What are these tests? How do they differ? Do you need to carry out both types of tests to ensure safety?

What is the difference between EICR and PAT?

EICR and PAT test two different elements of a building.

PAT testing checks the electrical equipment in a property to make sure it is safe. By ‘electrical equipment,’ we mean anything that needs to be plugged into a power source, like computer monitors, microwaves and vacuum cleaners.

EICR checks the electrical installation in a property. By ‘electrical installation,’ we mean all the fixed electrical equipment supplied through a building’s electricity meter like the fuse box, sockets and light switches.

Your guide to PAT testing  

All you need to know about EICR

EICR or PAT – which is right for my property?

To ensure safety, it’s recommended that you get both EICR and PAT carried out.

Think of PAT and EICR as two halves of the same whole. PAT makes sure the electrical appliances you use are at low risk of electrical shock and fire, while EICR ensures the electrical installation you plug your appliances into is safe.

Is an EICR and PAT certificate mandatory?

EICR and PAT are not necessarily mandatory requirements. It depends on the type of building and where in the country it is.

PAT and EICR testing aren’t a legal requirement for commercial buildings; however they may be for rental properties. The frequency an EICR is recommended depends on the type of building.

More information about PAT testing and the law

More information about EICR testing frequency

Even if an EICR and PAT certificate aren't a legal requirement, it’s important to remember that it is your responsibility to keep people safe. EICR and PAT testing are often the best way to do this.