What are the data plate and the HUD label?
The HUD label is an exterior metal certification label. The data plate is an interior paper label with identifying and design information. They are different records, and neither is an engineer's report.
Where do you find them?
HUD explains that the data plate may be in a kitchen cabinet, a bedroom closet, or near the main electrical panel. The exterior label is attached to a transportable section of the home.
Photograph what is visible. Do not remove a label or open electrical equipment to get a better look.
What does the data plate identify?
It can include the manufacturer, model and serial information, the manufacture date, label numbers, and design-zone information. Use it to name the home accurately when you ask questions.
Does either one show where the home has been?
Do not read more into them than they say. They identify the home and its manufacture. Treat them as identification, and look to installation, transport, and permit records for the home's history. Our guide to records that show a home was moved lists where to look.
How should you keep them organized?
- HUD label information: keep photographs or verification records together.
- Data plate information: save a legible photo of the full page.
- Engineer's report: store it as its own document.
- Title paperwork: keep it with the title company's requests.
Name the files by address and document, such as "123 Main data plate." Avoid calling everything a "HUD certificate," because the person reading the file cannot tell which requirement it answers.
What if the exterior label is missing?
HUD does not issue replacement labels. Its guidance points owners to label verification through the Institute for Building Technology and Safety, known as IBTS, when historical records can be found. Availability depends on the records for the home. Ask your lender what documentation it will accept.
What if you cannot find the data plate?
HUD names the manufacturer and the relevant inspection agency as places to start. Older closing or financing records may help too. Do not make a substitute label or assume a handwritten list will do.
Will an engineer replace a missing label?
No. A foundation or structural report does not recreate missing manufacturing records. Those are separate tasks unless a lender explains otherwise.
What is the next step?
Take clear photos and note which items are missing. Our moved home inspection works from the address and what you have. Send us the photos and what you know. We reply within one business day.