Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination, but some types of defects can only be found by testing.
However, it is essential to understand that visual examination is an essential part of the process because some types of electrical safety defects can’t be detected by testing alone.
Portable appliances essentially cover anything with a plug, and so will include small domestic appliances such as kettles and toasters and white goods such as washing machines that have been provided by the landlord.