PAT Testing Policy

A Portable Appliance Test checks that a mains tool's plug, cable and insulation are safe. It takes a few minutes, it reassures renters, and it is the main thing that decides how much cover a hire has.

PAT testing is optional for most tools, but mandatory for high-risk mains tools, including:

• Pressure washers and jet washes
• Carpet cleaners
• SDS drills, angle grinders and chop saws
• Hedge trimmers and lawn scarifiers
• Heat guns and paint strippers
• Class I metal-cased tools

High-risk tools stay hidden from search until a verified certificate is on file.

• PAT Verified (teal) — a current, approved certificate is on file. Full cover.
• PAT Required (yellow) — a high-risk tool still waiting for a test. Hidden from search.
• No PAT (grey) — optional test not done. Limited cover.

• Bring the tool to me — £5 per tool.
• Mobile visit — £10, within a 5-mile radius of the tester's base.
• Pick a date and time in the app; the address is shared once the visit is accepted.

Already had a tool tested? Upload the certificate from the tool's PAT page. It is stored privately and only used to confirm the tool's status.

Certificates are checked by a ToolPeer approved tester or admin. Once approved, the badge updates automatically, the tool becomes visible in search and gets a visibility boost. Rejected certificates come with a reason so you can fix and resubmit.