How often should a commercial kitchen extract be cleaned?
BESA's TR19® Grease minimum intervals are every 3 months for heavy use (12–16 hours a day), every 6 months for moderate use (6–12 hours) and every 12 months for light use (2–6 hours). A competent person may set a shorter interval based on cooking type and deposit testing.
Is TR19 a legal requirement?
TR19 is an industry specification, not a law. However, you must assess and manage fire risk under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and most commercial insurers require TR19 cleaning as a condition of cover.
Does cleaning the canopy and filters count as a TR19 clean?
No. TR19 covers the whole extract system, including ductwork and the fan. Daily or weekly canopy and filter cleaning by kitchen staff is recommended alongside specialist cleaning, not instead of it.
What qualification should a TR19 technician have?
BESA says technicians carrying out and signing off cleaning should hold the BESA Grease Hygiene Technician (GHT) qualification.
What if my kitchen runs more than 16 hours a day?
That is beyond the heaviest band in the TR19 table, so expect cleaning at least every 3 months and possibly more often based on grease deposit testing. Check your insurer's requirements too.
Do I need a certificate after cleaning?
You should receive a post-clean report with deposit readings, before and after photos and the next recommended clean date. Keep it for your insurer and fire risk assessment.
Do wood-fired or charcoal ovens need anything extra?
The London Fire Brigade advises that a solid fuel oven needs its own dedicated canopy and ventilation, separate from other appliances and built for high temperatures.
How much does a TR19 clean cost?
Prices depend on the length and complexity of the ductwork, access and how dirty the system is, so contractors normally quote after a survey. We do not publish prices we cannot verify – request a quote for your system.