I went for my warrant yesterday.  As usual before I go, I check the obvious things like tyre tread, lights, horn, wipers and brake pads.

I didn't watch while the inspection was being done and when the inspection was completed the inspector made a comment about the brake pads getting down a bit. Yes, I knew that, I had looked at them myself prior to the inspection, but there still looked to be at least an 1/8" between the disk and the backing plate.  He didn't say it had failed and I presumed it had passed.

When I arrived home I noticed the old sticker was still on the window, I took a closer look at the report and sure enough he had failed it, stating the front pads needed replacement.  I didn't have time to go back and discuss it there and then.  Today I decided to take a closer look at the old pads. They had at least 3.5 mm of meat left on them, measured with a caliper.  I debated whether or not to put them back on, but as I had new set on the shelf I fitted the new ones.

My question, if anyone can help, is: What are the legal requirements for brake pads?  I've certainly worn them down much more than this in the past and replaced them when the wear indicator starts to make a noise.

I can't help feeling I have been the victim of a zealous inspector.  Judging by the amount wear on the pads and previous experience I would have expected another 12 months or so of use before they needed replacement.