RESTAURANT READINESSClean beyond the surface.
Prepare before the visit.
Focus on the conditions you can address now: pest activity, grease buildup, sanitation concerns and unfinished maintenance.
01 / REVIEWKnow the concerns.
Bring your latest inspection report, service history and current observations to the conversation.
02 / ADDRESSTurn findings into action.
Agree on the work, access and follow-up needed for the pest or environmental concerns in scope.
03 / MAINTAINKeep the routine working.
Stay consistent with service, cleaning, records and repairs between inspections.
Service that fits your operation
Tell us about your kitchen, storage areas and current concerns. We discuss preparation, access and service timing before work begins, so you know what to expect.
Focus on the conditions that matter
- Pest activity: inspect affected areas and discuss treatment, monitoring and contributing conditions.
- Kitchen exhaust: confirm the accessible hood, duct and fan components included in cleaning.
- Mold and moisture: investigate visible concerns, musty odors or a history of leaks.
Keep a clear record
Keep service reports, findings and follow-up recommendations together. A completed visit and an unresolved repair are different things; your records should make the next action clear.
WORKING TOWARD AN AA good grade begins
with daily standards.
NYC’s grading system assigns an A to an inspection score of 0–13 points. The grade depends on the conditions assessed by the Health Department.
Understand NYC letter grades ↗What preparation includes
NYC’s A-grade guidance covers pest prevention, grease and food-residue removal, clean hoods, food protection, temperature control, surface maintenance and staff training. Pest service and hood cleaning are part of that wider routine.
Read NYC’s A-grade food safety guidance ↗Sources reviewed October 5, 2026.
NYC REQUIREMENTSPrevention is part of the job.
NYC Health Code §81.23 requires food establishments to address pests and the conditions supporting them, inspect premises and incoming supplies daily, and contract with a NYSDEC-licensed pest professional. The contract must provide at least monthly preventive inspections and services, with elimination services when pests are found. Required provider, service and contract records belong on the premises.
Read Health Code §81.23 ↗Outdoor dining counts, too.
NYC Health directs participating restaurants to extend their pest-management contract to their outdoor dining setup.
NYC restaurant guidance ↗Kitchen exhaust maintenance
Exhaust systems have separate inspection, cleaning and recordkeeping requirements.
See the exhaust-cleaning requirements →Sources reviewed October 5, 2026. Requirements depend on the premises and equipment; follow the linked agency guidance.