Overview
The Manchester Health Department’s Environmental Health Division conducts health and sanitation inspections of licensed child care programs in Manchester as part of the State of New Hampshire facility licensing process.
Although the Manchester Health Department is not the licensing agency, a health inspection is required before the State of New Hampshire issues or renews a license to operate. Environmental Health Specialists also use the visit to provide education on disease prevention (such as proper handwashing, sanitation, and safe food practices) and injury prevention.
When an inspection is required
You will need a Manchester Health Department inspection:
- Before the State issues an initial child care license, and
- For renewals, as required by the State licensing process.
How to request and schedule an inspection
Get the required State form
- Obtain the “Health Officer Report for Childcare Programs” from the NH Child Care Licensing Division
Schedule an inspection for the Manchester Health Department
- Contact the Manchester Health Department Environmental Health Division to schedule your inspection
Fees
Manchester uses a Day Care Facility Request for Inspection form with the following fees:
- Family Day Care (less than 6 children): $30
- All other child care facilities (more than 6 children): $50
Exemption: Facilities holding a valid Class III Food Establishment Permit from the Manchester Health Department are exempt from the inspection fee.
What we look for during an inspection
Child care inspections focus on whether the facility is maintained to help prevent disease and injury, including education for operators on prevention strategies.
Examples of common health/sanitation focus areas include:
- Cleanliness and sanitation of classrooms, restrooms, diapering areas, and food/snack areas
- Handwashing access and hygiene practices
- Safe food handling/storage (if meals or snacks are provided)
- Pest prevention and safe waste handling
- Safe storage of chemicals/cleaners and other hazards
- General facility conditions that may contribute to injury risks
Rules and Regulations
State rules (NH DHHS licensing standards):
Manchester’s child care inspections are conducted to confirm compliance with:
City ordinance reference:
Manchester also links the local ordinance section for day care facility inspections: