The Short Answer
- Look it up on HPDONLINE: enter the address and open the list of open violations.
- Each line shows the class (A, B or C), the code section, the location and the dates to correct and certify.
- Fixing is not enough. The owner or managing agent must certify the correction, online with eCertification or by mail.
- Registration must be current before HPD accepts a certification.
Five Steps
Look Up Your Building
- Open HPDONLINEGo to HPD’s HPDONLINE site and enter the building address.
- Open violationsPick the option for all open violations.
- Sort by classStart with Class C, then B, then A.
- Save the listPrint or save it so you can tick off each fix.
Read the Violation
Each violation line describes the condition, the Housing Maintenance Code section, where in the building it is, and the class. Sign violations usually cite the section for that sign, for example 27-2053 for the superintendent sign or 27-2048 for floor numbers.
| Class | Meaning | Correct within |
|---|---|---|
| A | Non-hazardous | 90 days |
| B | Hazardous | 30 days |
| C | Immediately hazardous | 24 hours for most; check the notice |
Fix Sign Violations
Use the current wording
HPD and FDNY update notice wording. Old text can still fail an inspection.
Put it where the rule says
Entrance, lobby, boiler room door or each floor, as the section requires.
Take photos
Dated photos of each new sign in place help if HPD reinspects.
The full list of required signs is in our required HPD signs checklist.
Certify the Correction
| Method | How | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| eCertification | Online, after enrolling with an HPD user ID | Free. Not for lead, mold or pest violations. |
| By mail | Certification of Correction form from the Notice of Violation | Free. Use HPD’s forms if the original is lost. |
Only certify after the work is done. HPD may inspect to confirm the correction, and a false certification has its own penalties.
If You Missed the Date
A violation that was not certified on time stays open. HPD offers a dismissal request process, and its violation reissuance program can give eligible older violations new correction and certification periods. Check HPD’s Clear Violations page for the current forms.
Send the HPDONLINE list or the Notice of Violation. We reply with the signs that clear each sign violation, a price and a ready date.
Email sales@signsny.com
Text 347-389-5849
Call 718-453-8300
Request a QuoteEmail Your Photos
HPD Violation Questions, Answered
How do I look up HPD violations for my building?
Go to HPDONLINE, enter the address and open the list of open violations.
How long do I have to fix an HPD violation?
Class A, 90 days. Class B, 30 days. Most Class C, 24 hours. Always use the dates on your Notice of Violation.
How do I certify a correction?
Online with HPD’s free eCertification, or by mailing the Certification of Correction form. Registration must be current.
Can I eCertify every violation?
No. Lead, mold and pest violations need paper certification with extra paperwork.
Does fixing the sign clear the violation?
Not by itself. The owner or managing agent has to certify the correction to HPD.
Ask a Sign Maker
Have a question about a sign violation on your building? Send the violation line. A project manager answers by email within one business day.
Written by Abie S., Signs NYC
Abie S. writes for Signs NYC. Signs NYC has designed, built and installed signs and awnings in New York City since 1995, with shops in Brooklyn and Linden, NJ. About us
Sources and Further Reading
NYC HPD
More Sign Guides
HPD & Building SignsRequired HPD Signs Checklist for 2027HPD & Building SignsFloor Number, Stair and Door Signs for NYC Apartment BuildingsHPD & Building SignsRent Stabilization Entrance Sign Rules for NYC Buildings