Filing a lien depends on the type of lien you need to file (e.g., mechanic’s lien, property lien, tax lien, judgment lien). Below is a general step-by-step guide for filing a mechanic’s lien (commonly used in construction and contractor work). If you need information on a different type of lien, let me know!
How to File a Mechanic’s Lien (Construction/Contractor Work)
📌 A mechanic’s lien allows contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers to claim payment for work done on a property.
Step 1: Check Lien Requirements in Your State
🔹 Each state has specific rules and deadlines for filing a lien.
🔹 Some states require preliminary notice to be sent before filing.
👉 Find your state’s lien laws by checking with the county recorder’s office or state contractor’s board.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
Before filing, collect:
✅ Property Owner’s Name & Address
✅ Legal Property Description (from the county assessor’s office)
✅ Your Business Name & Contact Info
✅ Details of Work Performed (dates, services, and amount owed)
✅ Copies of Contracts, Invoices, & Notices Sent
Step 3: Prepare the Lien Form
🔹 Get the correct Lien Claim Form from the county recorder’s office or online legal resources.
🔹 Fill out the form with accurate details about the debt and the property.
Step 4: File the Lien with the County Recorder
📌 Submit the completed lien form to the County Recorder’s Office in the county where the property is located.
🔹 Pay filing fees (varies by state, typically $25–$150).
Step 5: Notify the Property Owner
🔹 Some states require you to send a copy of the lien to the property owner via certified mail.
🔹 This informs them of the debt and gives them a chance to resolve it.
Step 6: Enforce the Lien if Necessary
- If the owner doesn’t pay, you may need to enforce the lien by filing a lawsuit (within a certain timeframe, usually 6–12 months).
- If successful, the court may order the sale of the property to pay off the debt.
Key Deadlines for Filing a Mechanic’s Lien
⏳ Deadlines vary by state, but common timeframes are:
📌 Preliminary notice: Within 20–30 days of starting work (if required).
📌 Lien filing deadline: Typically 60–120 days after last work/payment.
📌 Lien enforcement: Usually within 6 months to 1 year after filing.
Other Types of Liens
- Property Lien: Filed by creditors to claim unpaid debts.
- Judgment Lien: Placed after a court judgment for unpaid debts.
- Tax Lien: Filed by the government for unpaid taxes.
- Car Mechanic’s Lien: Used by auto repair shops to hold a vehicle until payment is made.
Dar Liens Offers Lien Processing and Filing in Arizona
Dar Liens Offers Processing and Filing of the following types of Liens: Pre-Liens, Notices to Owner, Medical Liens, Construction Liens, Mechanics Liens, HOA Liens, 20 Day Preliminary Lien Notices, and more.
