LEV Testing Cost UK: How Much Does a TExT Examination Cost?

One of the most common questions UK businesses have about LEV compliance is straightforward: how much does it cost? The answer depends on several factors, but typical prices fall within a predictable range. Understanding what drives the cost helps you budget effectively and avoid overpaying.

This article covers typical TExT examination costs, what affects the price, what you should expect for your money, and how to find a competent examiner.

Typical TExT Examination Costs

For a standard thorough examination and test (TExT) under COSHH Regulation 9, typical costs in the UK fall between £150 and £400 per system.

That range is broad because "a system" varies enormously. A single bench-mounted fume arm is a different proposition from a multi-branch ducted extraction system serving 12 woodworking machines.

As a rough guide:

Simple single-point systems (fume arms, portable extractors, downdraft benches): £150–£250
Medium systems (ducted extraction with 2–4 branches, spray booth extraction): £200–£350
Complex multi-branch systems (large workshop ducted systems, centralised extraction): £300–£400+

These prices typically include the examination itself, the written report, and recommendations. Travel costs may be additional depending on your location and the examiner's base.

Costs quoted here are typical market ranges as of 2025/26. Prices vary by region and provider. Always confirm pricing with your chosen examiner before booking.

What Affects the Cost

Several factors push the price up or down.

Type and complexity of LEV system

A simple single-hood system with a short duct run takes less time to examine than a branched system with multiple hoods, dampers, and a central air handling unit. More components means more measurement points, more visual inspection, and a more detailed report. Complexity is the single biggest cost driver.

Number of systems

If you have multiple LEV systems on site, most examiners offer reduced per-unit rates for bulk testing. Getting all your systems examined in a single visit eliminates repeat travel costs and reduces the examiner's setup time. If you have five systems that each cost £250 individually, the combined price might come in at £200 per system or less.

Accessibility

LEV components that are easy to access take less time to examine. Ductwork running at high level, extraction points behind machinery, or filter units in confined plant rooms all add time. If the examiner needs ladders, platform access, or assistance moving equipment to reach measurement points, that adds to the cost.

Geographic location

Examiners charge for travel. If you're in a remote area, or a long way from the nearest competent examiner, travel costs increase. Urban areas with more competition between examiners tend to have lower prices. Some examiners include travel within a certain radius; others charge it separately.

Examiner qualifications and accreditation

More experienced examiners with recognised accreditation may charge higher rates. This isn't necessarily a reason to choose the cheapest option. The quality of the examination and report matters — a thorough examination that identifies genuine problems is worth more than a superficial one that misses issues you'll be held responsible for later.

What's Included in a TExT

When you pay for a TExT examination, you should receive:

The examination itself. A competent examiner physically inspects your LEV system, carries out measurements (airflow rates, capture velocities, static pressures), checks the condition of all components, and assesses whether the system is providing adequate control. See our inspection checklist guide for details of what gets checked.

A written report. The report must record the examiner's findings, test measurements, the condition of the system, any defects identified, and a clear statement of whether the system is in efficient working order. HSG258 sets out what the report must contain. You're legally required to keep this report for at least 5 years.

Recommendations. If the examiner finds defects, poor performance, or areas for improvement, the report should include specific recommendations. These might range from immediate repairs to longer-term improvements. Acting on these recommendations is part of your legal duty under COSHH.

Next test date. The report should state when the next TExT is due. Under COSHH Regulation 9, this is a maximum of 14 months from the examination date, though the examiner may recommend a shorter interval if they identify concerns.

How to Find a Competent LEV Examiner

COSHH requires that TExT examinations are carried out by a "competent person." The regulations don't define a specific qualification, but the HSE's guidance in HSG258 sets out what competence means in practice.

A competent LEV examiner should have:

Relevant technical knowledge of LEV design, operation, and testing methods
Practical experience of examining the type of LEV systems you operate
Understanding of the substances your LEV system is designed to control
Knowledge of the legal requirements under COSHH and HSG258
Access to calibrated test equipment (anemometers, manometers, dust lamps, smoke generators)

When choosing an examiner, ask these questions:

What qualifications do you hold in LEV examination and testing?
Are you accredited by a recognised body?
Do you have experience examining LEV systems in my industry?
What does your examination include? (Beware of "visual only" examinations that skip measurements.)
What format will the report take? Does it meet HSG258 requirements?
What's your lead time for booking?

Trade associations and professional bodies in the occupational hygiene and ventilation engineering sectors maintain directories of competent examiners. Your industry trade body may also keep a list of recommended providers in your area.

The Cost of NOT Testing

LEV testing costs money. Not testing costs more.

Under COSHH, failing to have your LEV examined within the 14-month window is a regulatory breach. The HSE's Dust Kills campaign has driven targeted dust-inspection enforcement. Missing or overdue TExT reports are one of the most common findings.

The consequences escalate:

Improvement notice: a legal order to get your LEV tested within a fixed timescale. Failure to comply is a criminal offence.
Prohibition notice: if the HSE considers there's a serious risk, they can stop the work until the LEV is examined and any defects are resolved.
Prosecution: repeated or serious breaches of COSHH can lead to prosecution. Fines run into tens of thousands of pounds. Directors can be held personally liable.
Civil claims: if a worker develops occupational lung disease and you can't demonstrate your LEV was properly maintained and tested, you face a negligence claim with limited defence.

A £250 TExT examination every 14 months is a fraction of the cost of any of these outcomes.

Budgeting Tips for Multiple LEV Systems

If you operate several LEV systems, sensible scheduling reduces your overall spend.

Group your testing. Schedule all your systems for examination on the same day or consecutive days. Most examiners offer better per-unit rates for multi-system visits. One visit examining five systems costs less than five separate visits.

Align your TExT cycles. If your systems are currently on different 14-month cycles, you can bring them into alignment by testing earlier systems ahead of their due date. Once aligned, all systems get examined on the same visit each year. Use the LEV testing due date calculator to map your current deadlines.

Book in advance. Competent examiners get busy. Booking 4–8 weeks ahead is typical. Last-minute bookings — especially when your 14-month deadline is imminent — may attract premium rates and leave you scrambling for availability.

Annual contracts. Some examiners offer annual service contracts that include the TExT examination plus interim support. If you have multiple systems and want a consistent examiner who knows your setup, a contract arrangement can simplify budgeting and scheduling.

Maintain between tests. A system in good condition takes less time to examine. If the examiner arrives and finds blocked filters, damaged ductwork, and failed components, the examination takes longer and may require a follow-up visit. Regular maintenance between inspections keeps examination time — and cost — down.

What to Watch Out For

A few red flags when choosing an examiner or reviewing a quote:

Unusually low prices. A TExT that costs significantly less than the typical range may indicate a superficial examination. If the examiner isn't measuring airflow, checking capture velocities, or testing filter integrity, the report won't stand up to HSE scrutiny.
No written report. A verbal "it's fine" is not a TExT. You need a written report that meets HSG258 requirements.
No measurements in the report. A report that contains only visual observations, without airflow measurements or capture velocity data, is incomplete.
Report doesn't identify the next test date. The report should clearly state when the next examination is due.

LEVproof is being built to help UK businesses track TExT deadlines, store examination reports, and manage LEV compliance records in one place. Join the waitlist for early access.

Sources

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) — legislation.gov.uk
HSG258: Controlling airborne contaminants at work — HSE
LEV guidance for employers — HSE
COSHH main page — HSE

This guide summarises published HSE and government guidance. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.