CFPB Proposes Mortgage Servicing Rules

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed two sets of rules aimed at mortgage servicers. The first set, issued under the Truth in Lending Act, would require servicers to provide monthly mortgage statements that include a breakdown of payments by principal, interest, fees, and escrow; the amount of and due date of the next payment; recent transaction activity; and notices about fees. It also would require more advanced warning about interest rate adjustments on most adjustable-rate mortgages; advanced notice and pricing information before charging customers for “force-placed” insurance; and earlier information and alternatives for avoiding foreclosure. The second set of rules, issued under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, would govern the handling of consumer accounts, correcting errors, and evaluating borrowers for alternatives to avoid foreclosure.  Comments are due October 9, with final rules expected in January 2013.