EnglishInspection safeguard
If you are not happy with the given inspection rating, there are 4 options available. However, it is always recommended to speak with the inspecting officer first, so the rating can be explained in detail and matters may be resolved without taking any further actions.
Option 1, Accept and Improve
If you understand why you have been awarded a poor rating, you may accept the rating was given fairly, and make improvements to address the issues.
All scores will be clearly marked in your report and explained by the inspecting officer on the day of inspection, you can always ask the officer what you need to do to improve.
Your rating will be re-assessed at the next inspection. Generally speaking, a business with lower the rating will be inspected more frequently.
Option 2, Appeal
If you think the rating is wrong or unfair, you have 21 days (including weekends and public holidays) from the date of the inspection letter to ‘appeal’, before the rating goes live on the FSA website and APP.
Appeal form can be obtained from the local authority.
When you appeal, your existing rating will be shown as ‘Awaiting Publication’ on the FSA website. You will be notified of your appeal decision within 21 days from the date appeal is received by the local authority.
Option 3, Right to reply
If your hygiene standards have been improved since the last inspection, or if there were un-usual circumstances that may have affected your food hygiene rating, you have a ‘right to reply’, so that you can explain this to anyone checking your rating online. This will be published by the local authority online along with the hygiene rating of your business.
You can do this by completing a standard form which you can obtain from your local authority or you can send a letter or an email. There is no deadline to submit your ‘right to reply’.
Option 4, Request a revisit
If you have made the improvement that are stated in your inspection report, you can ‘request a revisit’, for the opportunity to improve your food hygiene rating. This can be done by completing the appropriate form which can be obtained from the local authority.
Revisit is a chargeable service with some local authorities now. You will be notified of any such charges when you make the request.