Inspections
What to expect from a health inspection
21 August 2026 · 6 min read
A health inspection is usually unannounced. A health inspector from your local regulatory authority assesses how safely you store, prepare and sell food, and your business is given an inspection rating under your local scheme.
What an inspector looks at
- How food is handled — storage, preparation, cooking, chilling and cross-contamination
- The condition and cleanliness of your premises and equipment
- How food safety is managed — your HACCP-based system and records
- Confidence in management — training, supervision and record-keeping
How the rating is decided
The rating reflects the inspector's findings across those areas. The details of how ratings work vary by local jurisdiction, so always check your local regulator's current guidance. The FDA's retail food protection standards are the national baseline.
Being ready before the knock
The kitchens that do best are the ones whose records are already in order. Better Food Safety consolidates every saved log — temperatures, cleaning, goods-in, HACCP and more — into a single inspection-ready view, so there is nothing to scramble for on the day.
Frequently asked questions
Are health inspections announced?
Inspections are usually unannounced, which is why keeping records current matters more than preparing for a specific date.
What is a good inspection rating?
A top rating means your kitchen is performing well. Rating schemes vary by area, so check your local regulator’s guidance for how it is assessed.