Lis Pendens

Methodology authored by Zach Wade, Wade Intel — operator-led lender tech methodology firm. Definitions validated against production borrower-validation runs with working bridge lenders. · Last reviewed 2026-07-10

What is Lis Pendens?

A recorded notice indicating that a lawsuit affecting the title to a specific property has been filed. Latin for "suit pending." It puts the public on notice that ownership of the property is in dispute.

Why it matters to bridge lenders

A lis pendens on a borrower’s current or prior properties is a significant red flag. It may indicate construction defect lawsuits, mechanic’s lien disputes, or title issues. Properties with lis pendens are difficult to sell, which directly threatens your exit strategy. PulseClose screens for lis pendens as part of the litigation check.

Example

A subcontractor files a lis pendens against a property your borrower is rehabbing, claiming $80K in unpaid work. This clouds title and can delay or prevent the sale that was supposed to repay your bridge loan.