What should a shop do when it receives an inspection notice?

What should a shop do when it receives an inspection notice?

• A. Ignore It And Continue.
• B. Cooperate, Provide Required Records, And Address Issues.
• C. Only Provide Partial Records.
• D. Panic And Cancel All Appointments.

Answer: (B)

When an inspection notice arrives, the most effective course is to cooperate with the inspector, provide the required records, and address any issues identified. Being forthcoming and organized shows you’re serious about compliance and helps move the process along smoothly. Gather and share all requested documents—licenses for you and your staff, sanitation logs, permits, appointment records, and any other records the inspector asks for—and be ready to explain how your procedures meet regulations. If something isn’t up to date, acknowledge it and outline concrete steps and timelines to fix it. Then commit to correcting the issues found and follow through with the inspector on verification or next steps. This approach minimizes risk of penalties, keeps the shop operating, and builds trust with regulators and customers. Ignoring the notice, providing only partial records, or reacting with panic and cancellation of appointments can lead to enforcement actions, unnecessary disruption, and erode confidence in the business.