Free State-by-State Guide

File a mechanics lien and get paid —
without hiring an attorney

A mechanic's lien is the most powerful collection tool in construction. It clouds the property title until you're paid. Know your state's rules before the deadline passes.

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$40B+

Unpaid construction debt each year

$500–$2,000

Typical attorney fees per lien filing

50 states

Allow self-filing without an attorney

PERMANENT

Rights lost when deadline is missed

Deadlines are strict — know yours now

Most states give you 90 days or less from your last day of work. Once that window closes, your lien rights are gone forever — no exceptions, no extensions.

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4-step overview

Send Preliminary Notice

Many states require this within 20–60 days of first work. Missing it can void your lien rights entirely.

File by Deadline

Deadlines range from 45 days (Hawaii) to 1 year (Mississippi). Know yours before your last day on the job.

Serve the Owner

Most states require you to mail or serve a copy of the filed lien on the property owner within days of recording.

Enforce or Get Paid

Once the lien is on title, owners typically pay to clear it. If not, you must file suit before the enforcement deadline.

Full 8-step guide →

Who can file a mechanics lien?

Lien rights extend to most parties who contribute labor, materials, or services to a construction project.

General Contractor

The prime/original contractor who holds a direct contract with the property owner. GCs generally have the broadest lien rights and the longest deadlines in most states.

Subcontractor

Any contractor hired by the GC (or another sub) rather than directly by the property owner. Subs are one tier removed from the owner, which triggers preliminary notice requirements in many states.

Material Supplier

Any company that furnishes building materials, equipment, or supplies that are incorporated into the improvement. This includes lumber yards, concrete suppliers, electrical supply houses, and similar businesses.

Equipment Lessor

Companies that lease or rent equipment (cranes, excavators, scaffolding, etc.) used on a construction project. Lien rights for equipment lessors vary significantly by state — some states provide full rights, others limit or exclude them.

Design Professional

Licensed architects, engineers, surveyors, and other design professionals whose services contribute to the improvement of real property. Rights exist even if construction never begins in many states.

Full claimant guide →