Why your appliances get checked and what it means for you

When you move into LSE accommodation, you’ll notice that every electrical item in your flat has a sticker on it. That’s because all equipment provided by the university, like your kettle, toaster, or desk lamp, goes through PAT testing.

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a routine safety check to make sure electrical appliances are safe to use. A trained tester inspects items like chargers, lamps, and kitchen gadgets, looking for faults such as damaged wires, loose plugs, or anything that could cause an electric shock or fire.

Why is it important?

Your safety: Faulty items are one of the biggest fire risks in student accommodation, so PAT testing helps reduce that risk.

Peace of mind: If an item has a sticker showing it’s been tested, you know it’s been checked to meet safety standards.

University standards: Universities follow the Universities UK (UUK) Accommodation Code of Practice, which sets rules to keep halls safe - PAT testing is part of that commitment.

What about my own items?

When you bring your own electrical items like a hair dryer, gaming console, or rice cooker, we need to check these to make sure everything in your flat meets the same safety standards.

What happens if my item fails?

If your appliance doesn’t pass the test, it will be removed by the reception team as it’s considered unsafe for use. They will contact you directly with more information about your device and the next steps. If you're bringing older items from home, it’s a good idea to double-check they’re in good condition before packing them to avoid any issues.

Banned items

Some appliances can’t be brought into halls at all, usually because they’re unsafe or likely to cause fires. If you’re not sure whether something is allowed, check our banned items list before moving in. 

If you’re not sure whether an item is safe, look for the CE or UKCA safety mark, or consider buying from a trusted retailer here in the UK rather than a no-name brand online. Purchasing locally can help ensure the product meets safety standards and give you peace of mind. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!