Emergency Lighting testing costs

[Guest Lucy Thompson]

I am after some advice.

I live is a small block of flats built in 1997.  It consists of just 6 flats over 2 storeys (ground floor, 1st floor and 2nd floor).  We have natural light on every level (windows).  My housing association are looking to charge us approx. £1000 per year (including vat) for our testing.  This includes a monthly test and 1 annual test.

We have 1 light on the ground floor (this comes on when it is dark and stays on until it becomes light again) and 1 switch on each floor that turns the 2 remaining lights on that are on timers ie. we press them on and they go off after a short while.

What does a monthly test consist of, how long does it take and what would the rough charge be for 3 lights.  And the same for the annual test?

I understand each situation is different but to me it looks like the housing association have set a tariff for this service no matter what size block you are.

Thank you in advance your time and advice.

[Tom Sutton]

What you have described is not emergency lighting therefore what is being tested? I would suggest is you contact the housing association and find out in detail what is being tested.

[AnthonyB]

Even if they were combined emergency lights there is no way on earth it should cost £1000 p.a. to test them!