Exhaust system inspection and cleaning
A reading of NFPA 96 11.4 as it is commonly cited on an inspection report. The reading explains the section; it does not certify a building or close a citation. The inspector's finding and the code text govern.
MatchExact section: the decoder holds a reading for NFPA 96 11.4.
Evidence reviewReading prepared from the published text, NFPA 96 2024 edition; readings dated Oct 14, 2026; line-by-line source check pending. Text: NFPA free access (nfpa.org).
AdoptionWhether this standard is in force depends on the state or city that adopts it, and on the edition adopted. The decoder reads it against any of the 51 state records.
What it coversThe hood, duct and fan are inspected for grease buildup on an interval set by cooking volume (solid fuel monthly; high volume such as 24-hour or charbroiling quarterly; moderate semiannually; low annually) and cleaned when buildup is found.
What usually closes itHave the system cleaned to bare metal; get the certificate and after-photos; set the interval that fits your volume.
Who can do the workQualified exhaust cleaning company; licensed suppression contractor for the system
Proof at re-inspectionCleaning certificate with the date and areas cleaned.
Questions to ask next: which edition and section the finding is written against, in writing; what exactly was observed and what the inspector expects at re-inspection; the correction deadline on the notice. Disagree with the reading of the code? Ask the inspector for the section and edition in writing, then the fire or building official for a written interpretation.
Also in NFPA 96
10 · Kitchen fire-suppression system
10 · Kitchen fire-suppression system