What New York City inspectors cite the most
The 10 licensing rules NYC DOHMH inspectors cite most often — in plain English, with what evidence inspectors look for. Free director's reference, from the official NYC DOHMH record.
Source: NYC DOHMH public inspection records · last reviewed 5/11/2026
#1 most cited
Floors, walls, and ceilings must be maintained in good repair and free of toxic finishes.
Evidence inspectors look for
- Cracked or peeling paint on classroom walls or ceilings
- Holes or unrepaired damage in walls and ceiling tiles
- Lead-based paint not abated in older buildings
#2 most cited
All staff must show proof of MMR, varicella, and Tdap immunizations (medical exemptions only).
Evidence inspectors look for
- Missing 2-dose MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) record
- Missing varicella vaccine record or disease history
- Missing Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) record
#3 most cited
Staff medical clearances must be on file and current; sick staff cannot care for children.
Evidence inspectors look for
- Annual medical certificate of fitness missing or expired
- Staff observed working while visibly ill
- TB screening expired or not on file
#4 most cited
All enrolled children ages 6-59 months must have annual flu vaccine by Dec 31.
Evidence inspectors look for
- Flu vaccine record missing for child enrolled before Dec 31
- Religious-exemption letter not on file
- Medical-exemption documentation incomplete
#5 most cited
Staff must complete required training within mandated timeframes; records must be maintained.
Evidence inspectors look for
- New-hire orientation not completed within 30 days of hire
- Annual training hours below 30-hour minimum
- Training certificates not on file
#6 most cited
Facility must be clean, sanitary, and in good repair; no dry sweeping while children are present.
Evidence inspectors look for
- Dry sweeping observed during operating hours
- Trash receptacles uncovered in child areas
- Evidence of pest infestation
#7 most cited
All exits and egress paths must have required signage posted.
Evidence inspectors look for
- EXIT signs missing or unlit
- Exit-route signage not posted in classrooms
- Emergency-evacuation diagram not displayed near exits
#8 most cited
Fingerprint background screening required for all current and prospective staff.
Evidence inspectors look for
- New hire started before fingerprint clearance returned
- Fingerprint results not on file
- Returning seasonal or substitute staff not re-screened
#9 most cited
School-based child care staff must have current medical certificate of fitness.
Evidence inspectors look for
- Medical fitness certificate expired
- Annual physical not on file
- Staff observed unwell while caring for children
#10 most cited
Group teachers must meet education and credential requirements (CDA or equivalent).
Evidence inspectors look for
- CDA credential or equivalent missing
- Bachelors degree in early childhood not verified
- Provisional teacher approval expired
Get the full New York City licensing risk report (free)
Top 25 most-cited rules with evidence templates, severity breakdowns, and a 1-page director's checklist. Emailed instantly.