Common HPD Sign Violations and How to Fix Them Fast
Sign violations are the most avoidable violations HPD writes. They don't involve leaks, mold or broken boilers. They're just a missing sign, an old name or a frame in the wrong spot. Here are the ones we see most, and the fastest way to fix each.
The quick answer
In short: The most common sign problems are outdated super info, missing notices, frames at the wrong height, paper notices that don't meet the rules, and the wrong fire safety version. Fix the sign, then certify the correction with HPD by the date on the notice. Fixing alone doesn't close the violation.
The top 8 and how to fix them
- 1Old super infoOrder a new superintendent sign the day you hire, and update the registration sign too.
- 2Inspection frame too highMove it to 48 to 62 inches, at or near the mailboxes. See the frame rules.
- 3Only one boiler key noticePost the second copy on the boiler room door. See why you need two.
- 4Paper noticesThe gas leak and detector notices need durable metal, plastic or decal with bold letters.
- 5No floor numbersOne on every floor. See floor number rules.
- 6Missing apartment door noticesThe fire safety notice goes inside every apartment door.
- 7Wrong fire notice versionMatch your building type. See fireproof vs non fireproof.
- 8No rent stabilized noticeThe newest requirement. See the rent stabilized notice guide.
Most sign fixes ship in 2 business days, fast enough for most correction deadlines. A missing boiler key notice is Class C, with 24 hours to correct. Shop required signs
How to find your open violations
Look up your building on HPD Online. It lists open violations by class, with the date each was issued. Sign violations usually show the specific section of the law, like the super sign or the inspection frame, so you'll know exactly what to order.
The correction clock
Each violation has a deadline based on its class. Sign violations usually aren't the immediately hazardous kind, but don't wait: the dates are on your Notice of Violation. Our certification guide walks through the deadlines and how to certify online for free.
Prevent them in the first place
- Walk the building twice a year.
Use our complete checklist every January and July.
- Tie sign updates to events.
New super, new owner, new tenant or renovation? Check the signs.
- Know what inspectors look at.
What this looks like in practice
Say an inspector comes for a tenant's heat complaint, and while in the lobby notes a missing super sign and an inspection frame mounted at 70 inches. The owner orders a new super sign, moves the frame down beside the mailboxes the same week, then certifies both corrections online. Two small violations, closed well before the deadline.
Official sources: HPD: Clear Violations, HPD Online, HPD Required Signage.
Quick answers
What is the most common HPD sign violation?
The gas leak notice is the most cited sign in NYC Open Data. Missing inspection frames, boiler key notices and outdated super signs are also common.
Does fixing the sign close the violation?
No. You also need to certify the correction with HPD by the date on the notice.
Where do I see my building's violations?
On HPD Online, by searching your address.
Not sure what your building needs?
Send us your address and number of apartments. We will tell you exactly which signs to order.
General information based on the NYC HPD Required Signage page as of November 2026. Not legal advice. HPD Signs NYC is not affiliated with the City of New York or HPD. Prices may change. Check nyc.gov/hpd for the latest rules.