Local Law · Housing
HPD property registration
Most residential buildings must register annually with HPD, naming the owner and a managing agent. It’s the cheapest obligation to meet and the most costly to skip — an unregistered building can’t certify violations or sue for unpaid rent.
What property registration requires
Owners of multiple dwellings (3+ residential units), and of 1–2 family buildings that aren’t owner-occupied, must file an annual property registration with HPD naming the owner, a managing agent, and a person authorized to accept service — with an in-state agent. Registration is due by September 1 and again whenever ownership or key information changes.
Why it matters more than the fine
Beyond the $250–$500 penalty, an unregistered building cannot certify the correction of HPD violations and the owner cannot sue tenants for unpaid rent. Registration is also a prerequisite for many other filings.
How to comply
- File or renew the registration with HPD by September 1.
- Update it promptly on any ownership or managing-agent change.
- Keep the valid registration on record — other compliance depends on it.
Reviewed against current NYC agency guidance by the NYC Building Compliance editorial team. Found something out of date? Tell us. Informational only — not legal or engineering advice.
Frequently asked questions
Who must register with HPD?
Owners of residential buildings with three or more units, and non-owner-occupied 1–2 family buildings.
When is HPD registration due?
Annually by September 1, and again whenever ownership or registration information changes.
What happens if I don’t register?
A $250–$500 penalty, plus you cannot certify violation corrections or sue tenants for unpaid rent until registered.
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