Housing Information Guide Notice (ABCs of Housing)
It's the notice most owners have never read. HPD's housing information guide, often called the ABCs of Housing, explains the basic rights and duties of tenants and owners in NYC. HPD lists it as a posting for buildings with 3 or more apartments.
Here's what it is, why it's on the list and how to post it without cluttering your lobby.
The quick answer
In short: The Housing Information Guide is HPD's plain language guide to tenant and owner rights and responsibilities. Buildings with 3 or more units must post a notice, in English and Spanish, telling tenants the guide is available. Put it on the wall of the entrance story, within view of where mail is delivered. The rule is Admin Code Section 26-1103.
What the guide covers
The ABCs of Housing is a longer document from HPD, updated in 2024 with separate versions for owners and tenants. It walks through everyday building issues in plain language, so both sides know what to expect.
For tenants, it explains what to do when something is wrong and how to report it. For owners, it's a quick reminder of the basics: heat and hot water, repairs, lead paint, window guards, pests and more. It points readers to 311 and HPD for help.
Why HPD wants it posted
A lot of tenant and owner disputes come from people simply not knowing the rules. When the notice is posted, tenants know their rights and their responsibilities, like reporting problems and allowing access for repairs. That tends to mean fewer surprises for everyone.
It also shows inspectors that the building takes its paperwork seriously. Along with the other required signs, it's one more box checked.
We make a framed, wall ready version that stays neat for years. Order the housing guide notice, $55
Where to post it
In a common area, usually the lobby notice wall. Because it's longer than most notices, it works best in a frame or a clear holder. Put it next to the safety notices, like the gas leak notice and the fire safety notice, so tenants find everything in one place. Our lobby placement guide shows a layout that fits it in.
Paper printout vs a proper sign
You can download HPD's sample notice and print it, but a loose paper printout taped to a wall rarely survives. It curls, gets torn and goes missing, often right before an inspection. A framed or mounted version keeps it readable and looks like part of a well run building.
What this looks like in practice
Picture a new owner of a 20 unit building in the Bronx. The lobby has the registration sign and the inspection frame, but nothing else. Walking the building with the checklist, they find the housing guide, the fire safety notice and the smoke and CO notice are all missing. One order covers all three, and the notice wall goes from half done to complete in an afternoon.
Tips from our shop
- Check for the current version.
HPD updates its guides from time to time. Ask your seller which version they print.
- Offer a copy to new tenants.
It isn't required, but handing the guide out with a lease builds goodwill.
- Keep it at eye level.
A long document hung too high or too low just doesn't get read. Hang it beside the garbage notice so tenants find both.
Who needs it?
Buildings with 3 or more apartments, which includes co-ops, condos and 3 family houses. A 1 or 2 family home generally doesn't need it posted.
Official sources: HPD ABCs of Housing, HPD Required Signage.
Quick answers
Is the ABCs of Housing the same as the Housing Information Guide?
Yes. HPD's guide for tenants and owners is commonly called the ABCs of Housing.
Does it have to be in Spanish?
Yes. Admin Code Section 26-1103 requires the posted notice in English and Spanish.
Can I hand it out instead of posting it?
HPD lists it as a posting for 3+ unit buildings, so keep it posted. Handing out copies is a nice extra.
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.