Building Number and Street Name in Addresses

The building number and the street name are the core of a street-level address. The street identifies a road; the number identifies a building along it. Together they point to one property.

How numbering usually works

Most numbering systems are sequential. Numbers rise as you move along the street from one end. Many places use odd numbers on one side and even numbers on the other. Others number consecutively on one side and continue back on the other, so that the highest number faces the lowest.

Some places number by distance, so a number reflects how far along the road a building sits rather than its order. In still others, numbering is by order of construction, so neighbours may have widely different numbers.

Number suffixes

Where a plot is subdivided, suffix letters or fractions are used, such as 12A or 12 1/2. These must be written exactly as given. Dropping a suffix can send an item to the wrong building.

Street names and types

A street name often has a type word such as street, road or avenue, and sometimes a directional. Naming and ordering depend on the language. Some languages put the type before the name, others after.

Common errors

• Swapping the number and street order for the destination region.
• Dropping a directional or suffix.
• Mixing an old and a new street name.
• Writing the building name instead of the number when both exist.

See common address mistakes for more.

When numbers or names are missing

Not every place has formal street names or numbers. New developments, rural lanes and informal areas may rely on descriptions. See places without street names and addresses without house numbers.

Summary

Always write the number and street exactly as the recipient gives them, including suffixes and directionals. When either is absent, add other identifiers such as the building name, a landmark or an exact-location code.