What Determines the Cost of Test and Tag Services in Australia?

When it comes to electrical safety, one of the most important responsibilities for Australian business owners is ensuring that all portable electrical appliances are properly tested and tagged. But if you’re budgeting for these services or trying to plan ahead, one question naturally arises: how much does it actually cost to test and tag your equipment?

At Testel, we often receive enquiries from business owners who are uncertain about how test and tag pricing works. The answer, as it turns out, depends on several variables — not just a flat rate. Our approach is designed to offer value, transparency and tailored service to meet your specific compliance needs, no matter your industry or location.

Understanding Test and Tag Pricing

Unlike some services where a standard price might apply across the board, test and tag costs are calculated based on a few key factors. The first and most obvious is the “number of electrical appliances” that need to be tested. The more equipment you have, the more time is required to complete the service. While the unit price per item may decrease slightly in large quantities, the total cost will naturally be higher.

The “type of equipment” you have also plays a part. Some appliances are simple to assess, while others may be specialised, industrial or high-risk, requiring more thorough inspection and testing. Items used in harsher environments—like on construction sites or in workshops—often need more frequent testing, and they may require additional checks, such as earth continuity or leakage current testing.

Site Accessibility and Logistics

Another cost consideration relates to how accessible your site is for our technicians. A compact, organised workspace allows our team to work efficiently, keeping costs down. On the other hand, if your business operates across multiple levels, in remote locations or in spaces where equipment is spread across various departments or buildings, more time and coordination may be needed, which can affect your final quote.

Service Frequency and Industry Requirements

The frequency of test and tag services will depend on your industry and the environment in which the equipment is used. Offices and retail spaces may only require annual or biennial testing, whereas construction sites are often governed by stricter timelines (such as every three months). Higher frequency naturally means more frequent service appointments, which can increase the cost over time.

Bundling Additional Safety Services

At Testel, we offer more than just test and tag. Many of our clients choose to bundle other essential services like “emergency and exit lighting inspections”, “fire extinguisher testing, or “thermal imaging” during the same visit. While these additional services do increase the total cost, they also ensure full compliance and reduce the need for multiple appointments—saving both time and money in the long run.

Custom Quotes for Every Business

While there’s a general formula behind how we calculate our prices—typically based on the number of items, location, type of equipment and any extra services—every quote we deliver is tailored. Whether you’re a small retail shop with 20 items or a large manufacturer with multiple facilities and hundreds of devices, we work with you to find the most cost-effective and practical solution.

We also offer “after-hours service” if required, as well as detailed digital compliance reports for your records. These optional add-ons are priced competitively and designed to support your internal compliance management processes.

Partner with a Trusted Safety Service Provider

At Testel, we’ve built a nationwide reputation on providing reliable, compliant, and value-driven electrical safety solutions. Our locally owned franchises ensure responsive service while benefiting from centralised systems and national support.

If you’re looking for test and tag services and want clarity around pricing and compliance, reach out to our team. We’ll assess your requirements, walk you through the options, and provide a clear and competitive quote.

Contact Testel today and take the first step towards creating a safer, compliant and fully protected workplace.

www.testel.com.au | 1300 881 116