Food hygiene ratings

Can I get my food hygiene rating changed?

The short answer

Yes, in three ways: ask for a re-rating visit once you've made the improvements, appeal within 21 days if you think the rating is unfair, or publish a right to reply alongside it. Most councils charge a fee for a re-rating visit and tell you the amount before you apply.

Last checked 25 September 2026 against official guidance · see the sources.

Option	When to use it	Key facts
Re-rating visit	You’ve fixed what the officer asked for	Apply to your council with evidence of the changes. Most councils charge a fee and tell you how much first.
Appeal	You think the rating is wrong or unfair	Appeal within 21 days of getting your rating and the council won’t publish it online meanwhile. You get an outcome within 21 days of the council receiving your appeal.
Right to reply	You want customers to see your side	A written response shown with your rating online. You can send it at any time.

Before you ask for a re-rating

Work through every point in the officer’s report, not just the big ones.
Keep proof: photos of repairs, completed temperature and cleaning records, and training records for staff.
Make sure the changes have become daily habits, not a one-off tidy-up.

Do I have to display my sticker?

Nation	Displaying the rating
Wales	Required by law, in a visible place at or near each customer entrance
Northern Ireland	Required by law, in a visible place at or near each customer entrance
England	Not required by law, but strongly encouraged

In Scotland (FHIS) you can also ask for a re-visit after improvements, use a right to reply, or appeal. Your council will explain the timescales.

Want to see a real rating and the three scores behind it? Check any food business’s rating, free.

Official sources

Free record sheet: Kitchen Cleaning Rota

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Food Safety & Hygiene for Catering: free practice course

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