Mechanic's Liens: How to Secure Payment

A mechanic's lien is your ultimate leverage when an owner refuses to pay. It clouds the property title.

The Preliminary Notice

In most states, you cannot file a lien unless you first filed a Preliminary Notice (often within 20 days of starting work). This warns the owner that you have the right to lien if unpaid.

The Filing Deadline

Deadlines are strict. If the state says 90 days from the completion of the project, day 91 means your lien is invalid.

See Contracts for more info on securing rights.

See Management for document tracking.