HPD Building Registration Number Sign Explained
Of all the HPD signs, this is the one that tells the city "this building is registered and here is who runs it." It's small, it's simple, and it's one of the first things an inspector looks for when they walk in.
Here is what the registration number sign is, what goes on it and how to get it right the first time.
What is the registration number sign?
In short: It's a sign in the entrance hall that shows your building's HPD registration number and street address, along with the superintendent's contact info. NYC requires it under HMC Section 27-2104(a), and the format is set by 28 RCNY Section 25-81.
Every multiple dwelling in NYC (3 or more apartments) has to register with HPD each year. When you do, HPD gives the building a number. The sign puts that number on the wall where tenants and inspectors can see it. Some people call it the serial number sign, because that's the term the law uses.
What goes on the sign
- 1HPD registration numberThe number from your yearly property registration.
- 2Street addressThe building's address, matching your registration.
- 3Superintendent infoName and contact details of the super, janitor or housekeeper.
We print your number and address on a metal sign, ready in 2 business days. Order the registration sign, $48
Where to find your registration number
You can find it on your HPD property registration, which owners renew every year. You can also look up your building on HPD Online by address. The registration page shows the number, the owner and the managing agent on file.
If you just bought the building, the old owner's registration doesn't transfer to you. Register under your name, then order a new sign with the correct details. That's one of the most common problems we see after a sale.
Where to post it
The law says the entrance hall. In practice, that means right inside the front door or in the vestibule, where anyone walking in will see it. Many owners put it next to the superintendent sign and close to the inspection frame, so the "who runs this building" information is all in one spot. Our lobby placement guide shows a full layout.
Why it matters
This sign connects your building to its HPD record. When tenants have a problem, it tells them the building is registered and who to contact. When inspectors arrive, it's one of the quickest ways to confirm the building's registration is current. A missing or outdated sign is an easy violation to get, and just as easy to avoid.
Keeping your registration current matters beyond the sign, too. An unregistered building can face penalties and may not be able to take certain actions in Housing Court. The sign is the visible part of staying in good standing.
Tips from our shop
- Double check the number before ordering.
Copy it straight from your registration. A single wrong digit means a new sign.
- Plan for super changes.
If your super changes often, ask us about a layout that makes the contact line easy to update.
- Go with metal.
Engraved or printed metal lasts for years and looks right to an inspector. Paper fades and peels.
What this looks like in practice
Say you just closed on a 12 unit walk up in Sunset Park. The lobby still has a faded sign with the old owner's registration and a super who retired last year. Here's the order we suggest. First, file your HPD property registration under your name and managing agent. Once HPD confirms it, look up the building on HPD Online and copy the registration number exactly. Then send us the number, the address and your super's details, and we will make a new metal sign in 2 business days.
While you are at it, walk the rest of the lobby with our complete checklist. New owners almost always find two or three other signs with old names on them, usually the super sign and the boiler key notice.
Registration number sign vs other signs
People mix this sign up with a few others. The superintendent sign is a separate sign at the entrance that lists the super's details on their own. The inspection frame holds the card inspectors fill out, which is a different document. And the street number on the front of the building is its own requirement too. The registration number sign is the only one that shows your HPD number, so it's the one that ties the building to its record.
Quick answers
Is the serial number the same as the registration number?
Yes. The law calls it a serial number. Most people know it as the HPD registration number.
Do I need a new sign every year?
No. Your registration number usually stays the same when you renew. You only need a new sign if the number, address or super details change.
Does a 2 family house need this sign?
No. It's a multiple dwelling sign. See Do 1 and 2 Family Homes Need HPD Signs? for what small homes need.
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.