[Knowledge Base](https://support.itsosystems.ca/) › [Compliance](https://support.itsosystems.ca/?folder=compliance) › KB402

# Pending Severance

ITSO MLS® Rules allow lots pending severance on the MLS® System. Member Associations should still check the points below so those listings comply with the rules.

## Legal description

Rule 2.08(c): an MLS® Listing cannot be accepted if mandatory fields are incomplete. Legal Description is mandatory. Do not leave it blank. Do not enter “tbd.”

Rule 2.06(b): the Listing Brokerage is responsible for accurate MLS® data. The Association must keep data to a reasonable quality standard. Do not enter “see geowarehouse” or “tbd” in Legal Description.

## Common scenarios

**Builder developing a neighbourhood.** The listing must attach to a specific lot. It cannot be a house model with no lot. As soon as lot numbers exist, enter a legal description. The listing REALTOR® should be able to get it from the builder.

**Whole parcel for sale; severance already applied.** Use the legal description for the full plot so buyers can run due diligence (for example a lien search).

**Only part of the land will sell after severance.** Still enter a Legal Description. Use the description for the land being severed, and say in remarks which portion is to be severed so buyers know what to look for.

## Seller authority and indemnity

If severance is not approved when the listing goes live, treat that as a risk. Rule 10.01(b): by submitting an MLS® Listing, the Listing Brokerage warrants to the Association, ITSO, and Members that it owns the listing, may publish the Content, and has a valid MLS® Listing Agreement with the Seller. Confirm the Seller can sell that parcel.

If the property sells and severance fails, litigation can follow. Rule 10.01(c): if a Member Association or ITSO is sued because the listing was published, the Listing Brokerage must indemnify them.

## Tips

- “Pending severance” in remarks does not replace a real Legal Description or PIN.
- For new-build PIN and image rules, see [Preconstruction Listings](https://support.itsosystems.ca/kb/401).
- For the full rules, see the [ITSO MLS® Rules](https://itsosystems.ca/docs/mls-rules) (Rules 2.06, 2.08, and 10.01).

Source: https://support.itsosystems.ca/kb/402