If you are selling a property that is subject to a lis pendens, you must disclose this fact to potential buyers. Failure to do so could result in legal liability. Additionally, a lis pendens can make it difficult to sell a property as it may deter potential buyers who do not want to become involved in a legal dispute.
The following parties are entitled to mechanics lien rights in New York: direct contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, equipment lessors, laborers, design professionals, and landscape gardeners who performs labor or furnishes materials for the improvement of real property.
In a case specified in section 6501, the notice of pendency shall be filed in the office of the clerk of any county where property affected is situated, before or after service of summons and at any time prior to judgment.
A notice of pendency shall be effective for a period of three years from the date of filing. Before expiration of a period or extended period, the court, upon motion of the plaintiff and upon such notice as it may require, for good cause shown, may grant an extension for a like additional period.
To file a lis pendens, the party filing must have or show one of two things: That there is a recorded instrument, usually some mortgage or encumbrance, or perhaps something related to a construction mechanics lien—that potentially provides the filer the right to the property on or in the document.
Pursuant to CPLR 6501, “a notice of pendency may be filed only when 'the judgment demanded would affect the title to, or the possession, use or enjoyment of, real property'” (Delidimitropoulos v Karantinidis, 142 AD3d 1038, 1039, quoting CPLR 6501).
To file a notice of lien, you must complete the Public Improvement Lien Form. You must also sign and notarize both the Lien Form and the Affidavit of Service. You can submit everything to DOF by mail or in person.