51²èÂ¥

Equipment testing and verification

In general, most types of weighing or measuring equipment must be tested and verified as correct before it can be used for trade purposes, either for the first time when new or after repair. The initial verification must be conducted by an Approved Body, use this link to find an approved body  the Council does not have Approved Body status so cannot conduct initial verification. However, we are able to conduct subsequent re-verification if weights and measures equipment if for example it is re-calibrated or has been repaired. 

Trading Standards Services in 51²èÂ¥ Statutory Verification Fees 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025

All Instruments

• inspector only hourly rate with a minimum charge of 30 minutes £62.52
• inspector plus assistant hourly rate with a minimum of 30 minutes £99.88
• hourly fee applies to all Instruments: 
  • weighing machines
  • linear measures
  • liquid fuel measuring instruments (not exceeding 100 litres)

Additional information

The charge per hour relates to the actual time taken on site. Travelling time is not charged. Where work is carried out outside normal working hours, the fee should be increased by 25% (evenings after 6.30pm and Saturdays) and 50% (Sundays and Bank Holidays).

Where the verification is outside 51²èÂ¥ travel time and travel costs will be charged.

Waiting Time

If any equipment is not submitted within 30 minutes of the appointment time a fee for 'waiting time' is charged at the current hourly rate.

Broken appointments

If on arrival for an appointment no equipment is available for test, and the submitter has not made an attempt to contact the TSS in reasonable time to cancel the appointment, then they will be liable to pay the full costs of despatching the verification team to his site. The amount of this fee will be determined by the officer concerned and the SP (Metrology).