Texas Mechanics Lien Laws
Texas has complex rules. Original contractors: 15th day of 4th month after month of last work. Subs/suppliers must send monthly sworn statements of unpaid amounts. Residential projects use the 3rd month deadline. 2 years to enforce.
Key Facts
Step-by-step guide for Texas
- 1
Confirm your lien rights
Verify you hold a valid contract, are properly licensed (if Texas requires it), and that the work was on private property. Public projects require a payment bond claim, not a lien.
- 2
Send preliminary notice within 15 days of first work
Texas requires a preliminary notice within 15 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Missing this notice permanently bars your lien rights.
- 3
Track your deadline from last day of work
Your lien must be recorded within 105 days of your last furnishing of labor or materials. Mark the calendar the day you finish work — this clock does not stop.
- 4
Prepare the lien document
Your lien claim must include: claimant name and address, property owner name, property description (legal description or address), amount claimed, description of labor/materials, and dates of first and last furnishing.
- 5
Notarization (not required in this state)
Texas does not require notarization.
- 6
File with the County Clerk
Record your lien with the County Clerk in the county where the property is located. Filing fee is typically $25–$50. Request a file-stamped copy for your records.
- 7
Serve a copy on the property owner
Most states require you to mail or personally serve a copy of the filed lien on the property owner within a short window of recording. Check Texas rules for exact timing and method of service.
- 8
Enforce by month 24
If the debt remains unpaid, you must file a lawsuit to foreclose on the lien within 24 months of recording. If you miss this deadline, the lien expires and the cloud on title is removed without payment.