Are lenders required to notify borrowers of intent to foreclose before filing in court?

In some states, legal procedures regarding mortgages do require lenders to inform borrowers of the intent to foreclosure. And if the bank is required to follow the FHA preforeclosure process, they must attempt to work with homeowners before foreclosing.

Other jurisdictions, though, allow the bank to file the foreclosure lawsuit and let the filing of the suit and its delivery to the borrowers serve as notice. From the time the foreclosure lawsuit is filed, owners have a period of time to answer the complaint.