In the fast-paced world of New York City restaurants, your kitchen hood is more than just part of your exhaust system—it’s a major line of defense against fire hazards. Yet, hood-related violations remain one of the most common reasons restaurants get cited, fined, or even shut down. If you want to avoid the wrath of the FDNY or Department of Health, it’s time to pay closer attention. Here are the three most common reasons your kitchen hood will get your restaurant violated in NYC.

1. Grease Buildup from Infrequent Cleaning Your kitchen hood is the first stop for grease-laden vapors rising from your cooking line. Over time, these vapors build up into thick, flammable grease. If the hood isn’t cleaned regularly, it not only becomes a fire hazard—it becomes a guaranteed violation. According to NFPA 96 standards, most restaurant hoods need professional cleaning every three months—sometimes more frequently in high-volume kitchens. Neglect this, and you’re inviting both fines and potential disaster. 2. Improper or Non-Compliant Installation A hood that’s incorrectly installed or fabricated from substandard materials is a major code violation. NYC inspectors look for proper clearance from combustibles, correctly installed grease filters, and certified hood systems that comply with UL 710 and NFPA 96 standards. If your hood was installed without a permit or doesn’t meet code, you're at serious risk of being written up during your next inspection. 3. Damaged or Missing Hood Filters Grease filters are essential to trapping grease before it enters your ductwork—but they must be the right type and in good working condition. Filters that are missing, damaged, or installed improperly can lead to serious code violations and increased fire risk. NYC inspectors check for approved baffle filters, and they expect them to be clean, secure, and undamaged. Stay Violation-Free with Master Fire At Master Fire, we’ve helped NYC restaurants stay fire-safe and inspection-ready since 1969. Whether you need hood cleaning, filter replacements, or a complete code-compliant installation, we’re here to help.

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