Inspection Day
The day your inspector arrives
What to have ready, what they will check, and how to present your documents.
Before your inspector arrives
Print your full document pack from your StarReady dashboard. Have it in a clearly labelled folder ready to hand over.
What inspectors look for
1
Written procedures
Your emergency plan, cleaning procedure, disease control and out-of-hours monitoring must be written, signed and dated. Verbal explanations are not sufficient.
2
Staff training records
Evidence that all staff have completed relevant training. For higher star ratings, OFQUAL Level 3 qualification evidence is required.
3
Animal register
A record of every animal in your care including owner contact details, vet details, vaccination status and any special requirements.
4
Isolation facility
A dedicated space for animals showing signs of illness, separate from healthy animals. Inspectors will physically check this.
5
Cleaning and disinfection products
Your procedure must name specific products, concentrations and contact times. Inspectors will check your products match your procedure.
6
Out-of-hours monitoring
A documented procedure showing how animals are checked during overnight periods. Must include a specific interval, not just "regularly".
On the day checklist
Full document pack printed and in a folder
Animal register up to date with all current animals
Cleaning products visible and matching your procedure
Isolation facility clean and accessible
Staff training records available
Temperature monitoring logs if applicable
Medication administration records if applicable
Contact number for your named vet practice
Star rating bands
Your rating is determined by how many higher welfare standards your premises meets. Documents alone do not guarantee a higher rating your physical premises must also meet the standard.
★★★★★
5 Star
All required higher standards met. 50% or more of optional standards met.
★★★★
4 Star
Most required higher standards met. Some optional standards met.
★★★
3 Star
Meets all mandatory conditions. Some higher standards met.
★★
2 Star
Meets all mandatory conditions only.
If the inspector raises concerns
Stay calm. Inspectors are there to help operators meet the standard, not to catch people out. If they identify something missing, ask them to confirm it in writing so you can address it precisely.
You have the right to appeal a licensing decision. If your application is refused or you receive a lower rating than expected, contact your council for the formal appeals process.