Inspection Email Verification Checklist
This is a simple checklist for UK food businesses to use before replying to inspection-related emails, booking calls, sharing documents, or agreeing to private services.
Page reviewed: May 2026
You are not required to use a private provider simply because they mention food hygiene, Environmental Health, EHO regulations, or an upcoming inspection.
Before you reply
- Check the sender's company and email domain.
- Ask whether they are acting on behalf of your local council.
- Ask how they obtained your details.
- Ask which premises the message relates to.
Before you book a call
- Ask whether the contact is sales, marketing, free advice, or a paid service.
- Ask whether there is any contract, minimum term, cancellation period or auto-renewal.
- Ask for all terms in writing.
Before you share documents
- Ask what specific documents are needed and why.
- Confirm whether the request is for official inspection communication or private support.
- Only share information you are comfortable sharing after role clarification.
Before you agree to any service
- Ask whether there is any contract, minimum term, cancellation period or auto-renewal.
- Ask for all terms in writing.
- Review pricing, support scope, and contract timeline in writing.
If the sender says an inspection is upcoming
- Ask whether they are acting for the local authority.
- Verify official inspection matters using your local council's official website.
- Use the council's official website contact details rather than details provided in marketing emails.
If you are unsure
- Pause before agreeing to calls or paid services.
- Request clarification in writing.
- Keep a copy of relevant emails and responses.
Email template you can copy
Example reply you can send
Hi, Before arranging a call, please confirm whether you are acting on behalf of the local council, Environmental Health, an EHO, or any official inspection body. If not, please confirm whether this is a private sales or marketing approach for compliance support services. Please also confirm how you obtained our business/contact details, whether there is any existing contract or referral, and whether any call is free with no obligation. Kind regards, [Name]