Inspections and enforcement
Inspections at your business
Authorised officers have a legal right to enter and inspect business premises that are open for business or at any reasonable time. They may give notice or make an appointment, but this is uncommon as it defeats the purpose of the inspection or may not be practicable.
For safety reasons, you should ask to see an officer’s official credentials or identification before allowing them to proceed. Criminals can pose as bogus officials to gain entry.
In most cases, officers have the right to:
- enter and inspect the entire premises
- make test purchases, take samples and photographs
- observe the operation of the business
- interview staff during the inspection
- inspect and test any goods, equipment or installations
- seize items liable to forfeiture
- seize and retain any food, goods, computers or documents as evidence
- break open containers or vending machines
- access electronic devices to obtain or access information
- require the production and take copies of recordings (including computer records), documents and video recordings associated with the business
It may be an offence to obstruct, fail to comply with a requirement imposed or fail to give assistance or information reasonably required by the officer. It's also unlawful to give false or misleading information (this includes providing access to locked or secure areas). If convicted, these offences are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment.
In certain cases, a warrant of entry from the courts may be used to gain entry at any time to any premises, by force if necessary.
Page last updated: 16 May 2023
