In the United States, there are very specific laws governing the process of foreclosure. For lenders and other parties providing mortgages, foreclosure laws grant the right to regain property if the homeowner cannot pay. This effectively protects the lender from the risks that arise if the mortgage is not paid. Conversely, foreclosure laws also protect those on the opposite side of the agreement, homeowners, who could be become wrongfully threatened of foreclosure. When foreclosure such as this occurs, it is a violation of the law, and legal action known as wrongful foreclosure can be taken against the lender. Most commonly, wrongful foreclosure actions are taken when a lender has proceeded with foreclosure after payments have already been made. Additionally, wrongful foreclosure can occur if the notice of default requires an incorrect payment, which can result from improper interest raises, unrecorded payments, or any other unfair practices.