State-by-state comparison of the deadlines that determine whether a contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier keeps or loses the right to file a mechanics lien on a construction project. Each record is one state with the preliminary notice deadline (days from first furnishing), lien recording deadline (days from completion or last furnishing), and enforcement deadline (days from recording to file suit), broken out by party role (general contractor vs subcontractor/supplier). Also captures whether preliminary notice is required at all, the notice name in each state's statute, whether the state is a 'full price lien' or 'unpaid balance' state, and the statutory citation. Answers 'how many days do I have to file a lien in [state] as a [sub/supplier]', 'do I need to send preliminary notice in [state]', and 'what happens if I miss the deadline'.

Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Alabama

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subs/suppliers must serve Notice of Unpaid Balance on owner before filing the lien

**Notice name:** Notice of Unpaid Balance

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** before filing lien (no specific day deadline stated)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 6 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 4 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 months after the date the entire amount became due

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Alabama Code §35-11-210 et seq.

> Not required. An original contractor in direct contract with the owner has no preliminary notice obligation. Mechanic Lien: File the Verified Statement of Mechanic Lien with the judge of probate in the county where the property is located within 6 months after the last item of work or labor has been performed. Enforcement: Commence suit to enforce the mechanic lien within 6 months after the date the entire amount became due. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: A Notice of Unpaid Balance must be served on the owner before filing the mechanic lien. Alabama law does not set a specific deadline; the only requirement is that the notice is delivered before the Verified Statement is filed. Failure to serve it invalidates the lien. Material suppliers have an optional Notice to Owner Before Work. If a material supplier delivers this notice to the owner before furnishing any materials, the supplier obtains full-price lien rights equivalent to an original contractor. Subcontractors cannot use this notice. Best practice is to serve the Notice of Unpaid Balance as early as possible. The lien is limited to the unpaid balance owed by the owner to the original contractor at the time the notice is served, so earlier service protects a larger amount. Mechanic Lien: Subcontractors and materialmen file the Verified Statement of Mechanic Lien within 4 months after the last date of furnishing labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/alabama>

Alabama — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Alaska

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 months

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** Alaska Statutes §34.35.050 et seq.

> Not mandatory. Alaska does not require any claimant to serve a preliminary notice as a condition of lien rights. Strongly recommended: record a Notice of Right to Lien with the recorder in the district where the property is located.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/alaska>

Alaska — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

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**State:** Arizona

**Preliminary notice required:** yes

**Notice name:** Preliminary 20-Day Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 20

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 20

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 months

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** A.R.S. §33-981 et seq.

> Best practice is to serve the Preliminary 20-Day Notice at the very start of furnishing, not at the 20-day cutoff. Only sub-tier claimants down to the second tier have lien rights in Arizona. Suppliers to suppliers are not protected. Mechanic Lien: Record the Notice and Claim of Lien with the county recorder within 120 days after completion of the project. If the owner records a Notice of Completion, the recording deadline shortens to 60 days after the Notice of Completion is recorded, whichever occurs first. Attach a copy of the Preliminary 20-Day Notice, a mailing affidavit and certificate of mailing, and a copy of the construction contract to the recorded Notice and Claim of Lien. Enforcement: Commence an action to foreclose the mechanic lien within 6 months after the Notice and Claim of Lien is recorded.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/arizona>

Arizona — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Arkansas

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — residential GC must deliver Pre-Construction Notice to Owner before commencing work; commercial subs/suppliers must serve Notice to Owner and Contractor within 75 days after last furnishing; all claimants must serve Notice of Intent to Lien at least 10 days before filing

**Notice name:** Notice of Intent to Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 10 days before filing lien (Notice of Intent to Lien); before work begins for residential (Pre-Construction Notice)

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 75

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 15 months

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** AR Code Ann. §18-44-101 et seq.

> On commercial projects, subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a Notice to Owner and Contractor within 75 days after last furnishing labor or materials. Every claimant must also serve a Notice of Intent to Lien on the owner at least 10 days before filing the lien.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/arkansas>

Arkansas — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** California

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers within 20 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Preliminary 20-Day Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 20

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 90

**Lien scope:** full price lien

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** West's Civil Code §8000–9566

> Subcontractors and materialmen must serve a written preliminary notice to the owner, contractor, and construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. If sent late, it relates back only to 20 days before it was sent. CC §8102, §8200.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/california>

California — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_name, state, statute_citation


**State:** Colorado

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — no pre-work notice required; Notice of Intent to File Lien Statement must be served at least 10 days before recording for all claimants

**Notice name:** Notice of Intent to File Lien Statement

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 10 days before filing

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 4 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 4 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 months

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** C.R.S. §38-22-101 et seq.

> No pre-work preliminary notice is required for a prime contractor in privity with the owner. A Notice of Intent to File Lien Statement must still be served on the owner and the prime contractor at least 10 full days before recording the Lien Statement.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/colorado>

Colorado — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** Connecticut

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers whose contract was not signed or assented to in writing by the owner

**Notice name:** Notice of Intent to File Mechanic Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** C.G.S. §49-33 et seq.

> Subcontractors whose contracts are not signed or assented to in writing by the owner must serve a Notice of Intent to File Mechanic Lien upon the owner within 90 days of last performance under C.G.S. §49-35(a). All mechanic liens must be recorded within 90 days after the last date of performance.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/connecticut>

Connecticut — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** Delaware

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** not required

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** incorporated into Statement of Claim filing

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** 25 Del.C. §2711 et seq.

> Direct contractors who furnished both labor and materials must file within 180 days after completion of the project. 25 Del.C. §2711(a). All other claimants must file a Statement of Claim within 120 days after completion of labor or last delivery of material. 25 Del.C. §2711(b).

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/delaware>

Delaware — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, notice_name, preliminary_notice_required, state, statute_citation


**State:** Florida

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers within 45 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice to Owner

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 45

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year

**Lien scope:** full price lien

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Florida Statutes §713.001 et seq.

> File Mechanic Lien Enforcement 1 year Commence an action to enforce the lien within 1 year of recording the Claim of Lien. If the owner serves a Notice of Contest of Lien, the enforcement deadline shortens to 60 days from the date the Notice of Contest is served. If the owner serves a 20-day Summons to Show Cause, suit must be filed within 20 days . File a Lawsuit Florida private project deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Not required. A direct contractor in privity with the owner has no Notice to Owner obligation. Mechanic Lien: Record the Claim of Lien with the county clerk within 90 days after last furnishing labor, materials, or services. Serve a copy on the owner within 15 days of recording. Enforcement: Commence an action to enforce the lien within 1 year of recording the Claim of Lien. If the owner serves a Notice of Contest of Lien, the enforcement deadline shortens to 60 days from the date the Notice of Contest is served. If the owner serves a 20-day Summons to Show Cause, suit must be filed within 20 days. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: Serve a Notice to Owner (NTO) on the owner, general contractor, and construction lender (if any) before or within 45 days of first furnishing labor, services, or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/florida>

Florida — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Georgia

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/remote claimants not in privity with GC only if a Notice of Commencement was filed

**Notice name:** Notice to Contractor

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** O.C.G.A. §44-14-360 et seq.

> Serve the Notice to Contractor on the prime contractor within 30 days of first furnishing labor or materials, OR within 30 days after the filing of the Notice of Commencement, whichever date is later. If Notice of Commencement is not filed, Notice to Contractor is not required.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/georgia>

Georgia — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** Hawaii

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** not required

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 45

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 45

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 3 months

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** H.R.S. §507-41 et seq.

> Hawaii does not require any preliminary notice as a prerequisite to filing a mechanic lien on private projects. All claimants — contractors, subcontractors, materialmen, and laborers — may file a mechanic lien application without advance notice.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/hawaii>

Hawaii — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, notice_name, statute_citation


**State:** Idaho

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required on commercial projects; GC must deliver Disclosure Statement / Notice of Right to Lien to homeowner at contract signing on residential projects

**Notice name:** Disclosure Statement / Notice of Right to Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 months

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** Idaho Statutes §45-501 to §45-517

> Not required on commercial projects. No pre-work preliminary notice is required for any claimant. On residential (owner-occupied) projects, the general contractor must deliver a Disclosure Statement / Notice of Right to Lien to the homeowner at contract signing; failure to deliver can affect lien rights.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/idaho>

Idaho — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Illinois

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subs/suppliers must serve 90-day Section 24 notice on owner and lender within 90 days of last furnishing

**Notice name:** Section 24 Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 4 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 4 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 2 years

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** 770 ILCS 60 (Illinois Mechanics Lien Act)

> Suit to foreclose the mechanic lien must be filed within 2 years from the last date of furnishing labor or materials. 770 ILCS 60/9. An owner can shorten this to 30 days by serving a Section 34 demand. 770 ILCS 60/34. Do suppliers have mechanic lien rights in Illinois? Yes. Material suppliers who furnish materials for permanent improvement to Illinois real property have lien rights under the Illinois Mechanics Lien Act. Suppliers who did not contract directly with the owner must serve the 90-day Section 24 notice on the owner and lender, and record within 4 months of last delivery. 770 ILCS 60/24. Does Illinois require notice before filing a mechanic lien? For subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers — usually yes. The 90-day Section 24 notice must be served on the owner and lender before or in connection with recording the lien, and a separate 60-day notice applies to subcontractors on existing owner-occupied single-family residences. Direct contractors are generally not required to serve a pre-lien notice on commercial or non-owner-occupied projects.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/illinois>

Illinois — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Indiana

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required on commercial projects; Pre-Lien Notice required for subs/suppliers within 30 days of first furnishing on Class 2 residential projects

**Notice name:** Pre-Lien Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** Indiana Code §32-28-3-1

> Class 2 residential projects (owner-occupied single or double family dwellings): serve a Pre-Lien Notice on the owner within 30 days after first furnishing labor or materials. Missing this deadline forfeits lien rights on materials furnished before service. Commercial projects: no pre-lien notice is required.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/indiana>

Indiana — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Iowa

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers on residential projects within 30 days of first furnishing, or 90 days on commercial projects

**Notice name:** Preliminary Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 2 years 90 days

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** Iowa Code §572.1 et seq.

> All claimants must perfect their mechanic lien by filing a verified statement of account (mechanic lien claim) within 90 days after the date of last furnishing labor or materials, or within 90 days after the completion or cessation of the work, whichever is applicable. Enforcement suits must be commenced within 2 years from the expiration of the 90-day filing period.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/iowa>

Iowa — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Kansas

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required on commercial projects; Warning Statement required for subs/suppliers on residential before furnishing; Notice of Intent to Perform required for subs on residential

**Notice name:** Warning Statement

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 4 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 3 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** K.S.A. §60-1101 to §60-1112

> Mechanic liens on private construction projects in Kansas are governed by Kansas General Statutes K.S.A. §60-1101 to §60-1112. Public works payment bond claims are also governed by K.S.A. §60-1110 to §60-1112, which require a minimum 100% payment bond. Is a preliminary notice required to file a mechanic lien in Kansas? For general contractors, no preliminary notice is required. For subcontractors and material suppliers on residential projects, a warning statement must be mailed to the property owner before performance under K.S.A. §60-1103a. The warning statement is not required if the claim does not exceed $250. What is the deadline to file a mechanic lien in Kansas? Contractors must record a Contractor's Mechanic Lien Statement within 4 months after last performance (extendable to 5 months on non-residential property). Subcontractors must record within 3 months (extendable to 5 months on non-residential property).

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/kansas>

Kansas — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Kentucky

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subs/suppliers must serve Pre-Lien Notice within 75 days on residential or 120 days on commercial after last furnishing

**Notice name:** Pre-Lien Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 6 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 6 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 12 months

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** K.R.S. §376.010 et seq.

> Serve a written Pre-Lien Notice on the owner stating that labor or materials are being furnished and that the property will be held responsible. On owner-occupied single or two-family residences: serve within 75 days of last furnishing labor or materials. On all other projects: serve within 120 days of last furnishing labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/kentucky>

Kentucky — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** Louisiana

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — GC on commercial projects over $25,000 must record Notice of Contract before work begins; subcontractors must serve Notice of Nonpayment; residential GC must furnish Notice of Mechanic Lien Rights

**Notice name:** Notice of Contract

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required (must record Notice of Contract before work begins on commercial projects over $25,000, or furnish Notice of Mechanic Lien Rights before signing on residential)

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 75 days from last day of month in which materials were delivered (Notice of Nonpayment for material suppliers)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 60 days after Notice of Termination (if Notice of Contract filed), or 60 days after substantial completion (if no Notice of Contract)

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30 days after Notice of Termination (if prime contract recorded), or 60 days after substantial completion (if not recorded)

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture — Failure to timely record the Notice of Contract eliminates the prime contractor's privilege against the property

**Statute:** L.R.S. §9:4801 et seq.

> General contractors: 60 days after Notice of Termination. Subcontractors: 30 days (recorded prime contract) or 60 days (unrecorded). Residential materialmen: 70 days. Commercial materialmen/lessors: 30 days (recorded) or 60 days (unrecorded). All deadlines triggered by Notice of Termination or substantial completion.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/louisiana>

Louisiana — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, notice_name, state, statute_citation


**State:** Maine

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** not applicable

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 120

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** 10 M.R.S.A. §3251 et seq.

> No pre-work preliminary notice is required. Remote claimants not in privity with the owner must ensure the owner has notice of the labor or materials furnished, either through actual notice or through the timely filing of the Notice of Lien. On residential property, best practice is to notify the owner before the owner pays the prime contractor to preserve full lien recovery. Mechanic Lien: File the Notice of Lien in the registry of deeds for the county where the property is located within 90 days after last labor or materials were furnished. File before any bona fide purchaser takes title to preserve priority. Enforcement: Commence a lawsuit to enforce the lien within 120 days after last labor or materials were furnished and record a Notice of Lien complaint with the registry of deeds. Maine public works deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Not applicable. The prime contractor is the principal on the payment bond and pursues payment through contract remedies, not a bond claim. Bond Claim: Not applicable. Mechanic liens cannot attach to state-owned public property in Maine. Prime contractors pursue payment through contract remedies. Lawsuit to Enforce Bond Claim: Not applicable. Prime contractors enforce payment rights through contract remedies against the public owner, subject to applicable notice-of-claim and limitations periods. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: Not required for first-tier subcontractors or suppliers in direct contract with the prime contractor.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/maine>

Maine — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Maryland

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — subcontractors must serve Notice of Intention to Claim a Lien within 120 days; GCs are exempt

**Notice name:** Notice of Intention to Claim a Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** MD Code Real Property Article §9-104, 105 et seq.

> 180-day suit deadline, public works bond claim suit within 1 year, and enforcement procedures Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic's liens in Maryland? Private works mechanic's lien rights are governed by MD Code Real Property Article §9-104, 105 et seq. Public works payment bond claims fall under §17-108. Maryland requires that the mechanic lien amount be 15% or more of the total project or new improvement. §9-102. What is the 15% threshold for Maryland mechanic's liens? Maryland law requires that the amount claimed must be 15% or more of the total project value or value of the new improvement to file a mechanic's lien. §9-102. Claims below this threshold cannot support a mechanic's lien. What is the Notice to Owner deadline in Maryland? Subcontractors must serve a Notice to Owner of Intention to Claim a Mechanic Lien within 120 days of last performance by certified mail. §9-104. Contractors are not required to serve any notice.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/maryland>

Maryland — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Massachusetts

**Preliminary notice required:** yes

**Notice name:** Notice of Contract

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 90

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** M.G.L. c.254 §1 et seq.

> M.G.L. c.254 §1 et seq. — Private Works, Notice of Contract & Public Project Bond Claims <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/massachusetts> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free MA Deadline Calculator Calculate your Massachusetts deadlines and get a free consultation. Massachusetts mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. Massachusetts Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement 60 to 90 days Record a Notice of Contract in the registry of deeds to preserve lien rights. Must be recorded by the earliest of: 60 days after recording of a Notice of Substantial Completion, 90 days after recording of a Notice of Termination, or 90 days after last furnishing labor or materials. Best practice is to record the Notice of Contract shortly after the written contract is executed, not at the deadline. Send Preliminary Notice 90 to 120 days Record a Statement of Account in the registry of deeds after the Notice of Contract is recorded.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/massachusetts>

Massachusetts — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Michigan

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subcontractors and suppliers must serve Notice of Furnishing within 20 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Furnishing

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 20

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Late notice consequence:** partial — Late service does not destroy lien rights but limits the lien to labor or materials furnished within the 20-day lookback period before service

**Statute:** M.C.L.A. §570.1101 et seq.

> 90-day Claim of Mechanic Lien recording deadline, owner service requirements, and filing procedures under M.C.L.A. §570.1101 Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/michigan/lien-enforcement-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Enforcement Deadlines 1-year suit deadline, Lis Pendens filing, public bond claim enforcement, and highway project suit timelines Learn More Related Reading In-Depth Michigan Guides <https://www.mechanicslien.com/blog/notice-of-commencement-michigan> How Important is Filing a Notice of Commencement in Michigan? Michigan requires a Notice of Commencement filed with the registrar of deeds and posted at the worksite. Read the Guide Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Michigan? Private works construction mechanic lien rights are governed by the Michigan Construction Mechanic Lien Act, M.C.L.A. §570.1101 et seq. Public municipal bond claims fall under M.C.L.A. §129.201 et seq. Highway project bond claims are under M.C.L.A. §570.101 et seq. What is the Notice of Furnishing in Michigan? Subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers must serve a Notice of Furnishing within 20 days of first delivery or furnishing under M.C.L.A.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/michigan>

Michigan — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Minnesota

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required on residential projects of one to four family dwellings; not required on commercial projects

**Notice name:** Pre-Lien Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 10 days after contract agreed upon (residential only)

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 45 days after first furnishing (residential only)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture — Failure to provide the Pre-Lien Notice on a covered residential project defeats the prime's mechanic lien rights against the owner

**Statute:** M.S.A. §514.01 et seq.

> <https://www.mechanicslien.com/minnesota/notice-requirements> Notice Requirements Pre-lien notice deadlines, statutory contract notice obligations, and public works bond notice rules under Minnesota law Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/minnesota/mechanic-lien-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Deadlines 120-day mechanic lien recording deadline, certified mail notice to owner, and filing procedures under M.S.A. §514.01 Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/minnesota/lien-enforcement-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Enforcement Deadlines 1-year suit deadline, public works bond claim enforcement, and litigation timelines under Minnesota statutes Learn More Related Reading In-Depth Minnesota Guides <https://www.mechanicslien.com/blog/lien-law-update-minnesota-court-rules-attorney> Lien Law Update: Minnesota Court Says Lien Notice Attorneys Not Immune from FDCPA Minnesota ruling holds an attorney serving a lien notice as a debt collector must follow the FDCPA, plus the Alon project suit and Indiana recording changes. Read the Guide Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Minnesota? Private works construction mechanic lien rights are governed by Minnesota Statutes Annotated M.S.A. §514.01 et seq. Public works payment bond claims fall under M.S.A.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/minnesota>

Minnesota — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, preliminary_notice_required


**State:** Mississippi

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC or direct subs; remote claimants not in privity with owner must serve Pre-Lien Notice within 30 days of first delivery

**Notice name:** Pre-Lien Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** Mississippi Code Annotated §85-7-131 et seq.

> File Mechanic Lien Enforcement 180 days Commence the action to enforce the Claim of Lien within 180 days after recording. File a Lawsuit Mississippi private project deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Not required. A prime contractor in privity with the owner has no Pre-Lien Notice obligation. Mechanic Lien: Record the Claim of Lien with the chancery clerk within 90 days after last furnishing labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/mississippi>

Mississippi — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Missouri

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — subcontractors and suppliers must serve Ten-Day Notice of Intent to File Mechanic's Lien at least 10 days before recording; GC on owner-occupied residential must deliver Notice of Rights before receiving any payment

**Notice name:** Ten-Day Notice of Intent to File Mechanic's Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required (except owner-occupied residential: before receiving any payment)

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** at least 10 days before recording Statement of Lien

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 429

> Missouri MO Construction Law Missouri Mechanic Lien Guide and FAQs Your Complete Guide to Mechanic Lien Rights Under Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 429 —

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/missouri>

Missouri — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, notice_name


**State:** Montana

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required for subcontractors on residential projects (1-4 units) and non-commercial improvements; not required for GCs, commercial improvements, buildings for 5+ families, or laborers

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to Claim a Construction Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 20 days after first furnishing (or 45 days if funded by regulated lender and not owner's residence)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 730

**Late notice consequence:** partial — A late notice does not kill the lien, it shrinks it. The lien then reaches only what you furnished in the 20 days before the notice was served, plus everything after

**Statute:** Montana Rev. Code §71-3-501 et seq.

> Montana Rev. Code §71-3-501 et seq. — Private Works, Payment Bonds & Public Projects <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/montana> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free MT Deadline Calculator Calculate your Montana deadlines and get a free consultation. Montana mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. Montana Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Property Classification Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Laborers & Wage Earners Prime Contractor — In direct contract with the property owner, including an architect, engineer, or surveyor the owner hired directly Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement Not Required 90

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/montana>

Montana — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, notice_deadline_sub_days, notice_name


**State:** Nebraska

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** not applicable

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 730

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** Nebraska Revised Statutes §§52-125 to 52-159

> Suppliers to suppliers have no lien rights. Mechanic Lien: Record the Construction Lien with the register of deeds within 120 days after the claimant's last substantial furnishing. Send a copy of the recorded Construction Lien to the owner within 10 days after recording. Enforcement: Commence an action to enforce the Construction Lien within 2 years after the date of recording. If the owner delivers a written demand to institute proceedings, the lien lapses 30 days after receipt unless the claimant sues or files an affidavit that the contract price is not yet due. Nebraska public works deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Not applicable. The prime contractor is the principal on the payment bond and pursues payment through contract remedies, not a bond claim. Bond Claim: Not applicable. Mechanic liens cannot attach to public property in Nebraska. Prime contractors pursue payment through contract remedies. Lawsuit to Enforce Bond Claim: Contract remedies against the public owner, subject to any applicable notice-of-claim and limitations periods. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: Not required for claimants in direct contract with the prime contractor furnishing the payment bond.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/nebraska>

Nebraska — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Nevada

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers within 31 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 31

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** NRS §108.221 et seq.

> Serve a Notice of Right to Lien on the owner and the prime contractor within 31 days of first delivery of labor or materials. The 31 days is a look-back, not a cutoff. The notice may be served at any time, and a late one still preserves lien rights for the 31 days before it is served plus everything furnished after. NRS §108.245(1), (6).

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/nevada>

Nevada — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** New Hampshire

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subs/suppliers without direct written contract with owner must notify owner before performing or furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** before first furnishing

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 120

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** N.H. RSA §447:1 et seq.

> Serve a written Notice of Lien on the owner before performing labor, or in writing before furnishing materials. Required for any claimant not in direct contract with the owner. The Notice of Lien preserves lien rights against the owner; without it, the lien is limited to amounts the owner owes the prime contractor at the time notice is given.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/new-hampshire>

New Hampshire — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** New Jersey

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for commercial projects; required for residential projects (owner-occupied 1-2 family dwelling) within 60 days of last furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Unpaid Balance and Right to File Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 60

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** N.J.S.A. 2A:44A-1 et seq.

> <https://www.mechanicslien.com/new-jersey/notice-requirements> Notice Requirements Notice of Unpaid Balance and Right to File Lien obligations for residential projects, commercial project exemptions, and public works payment bond claim notice requirements under New Jersey law Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/new-jersey/mechanic-lien-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Deadlines 60-day residential NUB deadline, 90-day commercial lien filing requirements, County Clerk recording procedures, and lien amount limitations under N.J.S.A. 2A:44A-1 et seq.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/new-jersey>

New Jersey — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** New Mexico

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC or those contracting directly with GC; required for remote claimants on claims over $5,000 within 60 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to Claim a Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 730

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** N.M. Statutes §48-2-1 et seq.

> Under §48-2-2.1, a mechanic or materialman who contracts with neither the owner nor the original contractor must serve a Notice of Right to Claim a Mechanic Lien within 60 days of first furnishing where the lien claim exceeds $5,000. An original contractor, and anyone contracting directly with the original contractor, is exempt, and the requirement does not reach residential property containing 4 or fewer dwelling units.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/new-mexico>

New Mexico — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** New York

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** not required

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 8 months

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 8 months

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** NY Mechanic Lien Law §40 et seq.

> File a Lawsuit Preliminary Notice Not Required Mechanic Lien 8 months File the Notice of Mechanic's Lien with the county clerk within 8 months after the last date of furnishing labor or materials. 4 months The 4-month filing window applies only to single-family dwellings. Two-family dwellings follow the standard 8-month rule. Serve a copy of the Notice of Lien on the owner within 5 days before OR within 30 days after filing. File proof of service with the county clerk within 35 days after the lien is filed, or the lien terminates. File Mechanic Lien Enforcement 1 year Commence an action to foreclose the mechanic's lien within 1 year after the lien is filed. A lien may be extended for one additional year by filing a notice of extension with the county clerk before expiration. 30 days If any party serves a Notice to Foreclose under Lien Law §59, suit must be filed within 30 days or the lien is discharged. File a Lawsuit New York private project deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: No preliminary notice is required in New York. Mechanic Lien: File the Notice of Mechanic's Lien with the county clerk within 8 months after the last date of furnishing labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/new-york>

New York — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** North Carolina

**Preliminary notice required:** yes — all claimants must serve Notice to Lien Agent within 15 days of first furnishing on projects where owner has designated a lien agent

**Notice name:** Notice to Lien Agent

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 15

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 15

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** NC Real Property §44A-7 through 24

> NC Real Property §44A-7 Through 24 — Private Works, Mechanic Lien on Funds, Payment Bonds & Public Projects <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/north-carolina> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free NC Deadline Calculator Calculate your North Carolina deadlines and get a free consultation. North Carolina mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. North Carolina Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement 15 days Serve a Notice to Lien Agent within 15 days of first furnishing on projects where the owner has designated a lien agent under N.C.G.S. §44A-11.2. A Claim of Lien on Funds is not required for a contractor in direct contract with the owner. Send Preliminary Notice 120 days Record the Claim of Lien on Real Property with the county clerk of superior court within 120 days after last furnishing labor or materials. N.C.G.S. §44A-12(b). File Mechanic Lien 180 days Commence an action to enforce the lien within 180 days after last furnishing labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/north-carolina>

North Carolina — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** North Dakota

**Preliminary notice required:** yes — all claimants must serve Notice of Intention to Claim a Construction Lien on owner at least 10 days before filing

**Notice name:** Notice of Intention to Claim a Construction Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 10 days before filing

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 10 days before filing

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1095

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** NDCC Chapter 35-27

> NDCC Chapter 35-27 — Private Works, Payment Bonds & Public Projects <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/north-dakota> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free ND Deadline Calculator Calculate your North Dakota deadlines and get a free consultation. North Dakota mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. North Dakota Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement 10 days before filing Serve the Notice of Intention to Claim a Construction Lien on the owner at least 10 days before filing the Construction Lien. Required for all claimants, including prime contractors in privity with the owner. If the owner demands a statement of account, wait an additional 10 days after providing the statement before filing. Send Preliminary Notice 90

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/north-dakota>

North Dakota — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Ohio

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs/suppliers within 21 days of first furnishing only when owner has filed a Notice of Commencement

**Notice name:** Notice of Furnishing

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 21

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 75

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 75

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 6 years

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** Ohio Revised Code Annotated §1311.01 through §1311.22

> The Notice of Furnishing is required only when the owner has filed a Notice of Commencement. It is NOT required on owner-occupied 1-2 family residential projects, and NOT required if no Notice of Commencement has been filed. On projects where it applies, serve the Notice of Furnishing on the prime contractor and owner within 21 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Late service limits the lien to labor or materials furnished on or after the 21-day lookback period before service.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/ohio>

Ohio — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, state, statute_citation


**State:** Oklahoma

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for subs on residential (1-4 family) or projects where aggregate unpaid balance exceeds $10,000, within 75 days of last furnishing

**Notice name:** Pre-Lien Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 75

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 365

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Oklahoma Statute Annotated Title 42 §141-154

> Construction mechanic liens are governed by Oklahoma Statute Annotated Title 42 §141-154 and §171-180. Oil and gas mechanic liens are under §144-145. Public works bonds are governed by Title 61 §1-2 for contracts over $25,000. Is a preliminary notice required to file a mechanic lien in Oklahoma? Contractors need no general preliminary notice. Subcontractors must file a Pre-Lien Notice within 75 days of last furnishing (not required under $10,000). Equipment lessors must give Notice to Owner within 5 days of placing equipment on-site. Owner-occupied dwellings have additional notice requirements. What is the deadline to file a mechanic lien in Oklahoma? Contractors: 4 months from last performance. Subcontractors and materialmen: 90 days from last performance. Equipment lessors: 90 days. Oil and gas: 120 days.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/oklahoma>

Oklahoma — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Oregon

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — GC must give Information Notice to Owner at time of contract signing on residential projects; subs must serve Notice of Right to a Lien within 8 business days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to a Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 8 business days

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 75

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 75

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 120

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** ORS §87.001 et seq.

> Commence a suit on the payment bond no earlier than 120 days after serving the Notice of Claim. The suit must be filed no later than 2 years after the claimant's last furnishing of labor or materials. Oregon Mechanic Lien Law Overview Last updated April 2026 · Reviewed by <https://www.mechanicslien.com/about> Thomas Emalfarb, Esq. Oregon construction mechanic lien rights are governed by ORS §87.001 et seq. This statute provides mechanic's lien rights to contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers who furnish labor or materials for the improvement of real property in the State of Oregon. Oregon's mechanic lien law framework includes distinctive notice requirements that differ significantly from most other states. Oregon's notice system is unique. General contractors are not required to serve a traditional preliminary notice, but must provide a Notice of Right to Mechanic Lien to the property owner at the time of contracting. Subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a Notice of Right to a Mechanic Lien within 8 business days of first delivering materials or providing services. This notice must be sent to the property owner and to the mortgage holder of record. All claimants must file their construction mechanic lien within 75 days of the date of completion of the original contract or cessation of work.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/oregon>

Oregon — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Pennsylvania

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; for subs on projects of $1.5 million or more where owner has filed Notice of Commencement, Notice of Furnishing must be filed within 45 days of first furnishing; all subs must also serve 30-day Notice of Intent to Lien before filing

**Notice name:** Notice of Furnishing

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 45

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 730

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** 49 P.S. §1101 et seq.

> 49 P.S. §1101 et seq. — Private Works, Notice of Furnishing & Public Project Bond Claims <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/pennsylvania> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free PA Deadline Calculator Calculate your Pennsylvania deadlines and get a free consultation. Pennsylvania mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. Pennsylvania Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement Not Required

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/pennsylvania>

Pennsylvania — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, preliminary_notice_required


**State:** Rhode Island

**Preliminary notice required:** yes — all claimants must mail Notice of Intention to owner and record it within 200 days after last furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Intention

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 200

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 200

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 40

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 40

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 40

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** R.I. Gen. Laws §34-28-1 et seq.

> 200 days (residential) for all claimants Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/rhode-island/lien-enforcement-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Enforcement Deadlines Suit within 40 days of filing Notice of Intention; public works bond suit within 1 year after final settlement Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Rhode Island? Mechanic's liens are governed by R.I. Gen. Laws §34-28-1 et seq. Public works bond claims are governed by R.I.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/rhode-island>

Rhode Island — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** South Carolina

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required for remote claimants (sub-subcontractors) only if the prime contractor files a Notice of Project Commencement; waived if no commencement notice is filed

**Notice name:** Notice of Furnishing Labor or Materials

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** S.C. Code §29-5-10 et seq.

> S.C. Code §29-5-10 et seq. — Private Works, Payment Bonds & Public Projects <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/south-carolina> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free SC Deadline Calculator Calculate your South Carolina deadlines and get a free consultation. South Carolina mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. South Carolina Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement Not Required 90 days Record within 90 days after last furnishing and serve the owner within the same 90-day window.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/south-carolina>

South Carolina — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_scope, notice_name, preliminary_notice_required


**State:** South Dakota

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC or first-tier subs; required for subcontractors and suppliers not in privity with the owner within 60 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Preliminary Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 60

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 120

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** S.D. Codified Laws §44-9-1 et seq.

> General contractors are not required to serve a preliminary notice. Subcontractors and suppliers not in privity with the owner must serve preliminary notice to the owner within 60 days of first furnishing. What is the deadline to file a mechanic lien in South Dakota? All claimants must file their mechanic lien within 120 days from the date of last furnishing labor or materials under S.D. Codified Laws §44-9-1 et seq. How does South Dakota mechanic lien law differ from other states?

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/south-dakota>

South Dakota — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Tennessee

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required on commercial projects for remote contractors (Notice of Nonpayment within 90 days of end of each month with unpaid work); not required for prime contractors

**Notice name:** Notice of Nonpayment

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 365

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 90

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** T.C.A. § 66-11-101 et seq.

> File a Lawsuit Tennessee private project deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Not required. A prime contractor in direct contract with the owner has no preliminary notice obligation. Mechanic Lien: The prime contractor's mechanic lien against the owner arises automatically upon furnishing and remains enforceable for 1 year after completion without any recording. To preserve priority against subsequent purchasers and encumbrancers, record a Notice of Lien (Sworn Statement of amount owed) with the County Register within 1 year after completion of the contract. Enforcement: Commence an action to enforce the mechanic lien within 1 year after completion of the contract. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: On commercial projects, serve a Notice of Nonpayment on the owner and prime contractor by certified mail within 90 days after the last day of each month in which labor or materials were furnished and remain unpaid.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/tennessee>

Tennessee — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Texas

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; required for derivative claimants (subs/suppliers) monthly

**Notice name:** Notice of Claim

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 15th day of the 3rd month after each month of unpaid work (commercial)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 15th day of the 4th month after the month the original contract was completed, terminated, or abandoned (commercial)

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 15th day of the 4th month after the month the claimant last furnished labor or materials (commercial)

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 1 year from the last day the lien affidavit could have been filed

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Texas Property Code Chapter 53

> Original contractors are not required to serve any preliminary notice before filing a mechanic lien affidavit in Texas. Derivative claimants must serve a Notice of Claim for Unpaid Labor or Materials on both the property owner and the original contractor before filing a lien affidavit. For non-residential projects, this notice must be served by the 15th day of the 3rd calendar month following each month in which labor or materials were furnished but remain unpaid (§53.056).

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/texas>

Texas — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, statute_citation


**State:** Utah

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for the original contractor (GC); required for subcontractors and suppliers via Preliminary Notice filed with State Construction Registry within 20 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Preliminary Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 20

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** Utah Code §38-1a-101 et seq.

> 180-day suit deadline, payment bond suits between 90 days and 1 year, public works enforcement, and owner liability for failure to require bonds Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Utah? Mechanic's liens are governed by Utah Code §38-1a-101 et seq. and §38-11-20 et seq. Private commercial bonds are governed by §14-2-1 et seq. and public works bonds by §14-1-1 et seq. Is a preliminary notice required to file a mechanic lien in Utah?

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/utah>

Utah — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Vermont

**Preliminary notice required:** no

**Notice name:** Memorandum of Contractor's Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** not required

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** none

**Statute:** Vt. Stat. Ann. Title 9 §1921 et seq.

> Contractors are not required to serve any preliminary notice or notice to the owner. Subcontractors must serve a Notice to Owner within 180 days of the date payment is due for last material provided or services performed. A unique feature of Vermont mechanic lien law is the requirement to file a court-ordered attachment within the 180-day window to perfect the mechanic lien, as established in Filter Equip. v. IBM, 142 Vt. 499, 458 A.2d 1091 (1983). Notice to the owner should be sent as soon as possible because it prevents the owner from selling or mortgaging the property without disclosing the mechanic lien. Vermont public works bond claims apply specifically to highway contracts and Agency of Transportation improvement projects under Vt. Stat. Ann. Title 19 §10(9). Topics on This Page Vermont Mechanic Lien Law: Key Topics Navigate the critical compliance areas for Vermont construction mechanic lien law. <https://www.mechanicslien.com/vermont/notice-requirements> Notice Requirements Subcontractor Notice to Owner within 180 days, no preliminary notice for contractors, and public works Sworn Statement of Claim within 90 days Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/vermont/mechanic-lien-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Deadlines 180-day Memorandum of Mechanic Lien filing deadline, court-ordered attachment requirement, and mechanic lien perfection procedures Learn More <https://www.mechanicslien.com/vermont/lien-enforcement-deadlines> Mechanic Lien Enforcement Deadlines 180-day suit deadline, court-ordered attachment within 180-day window, public works bond suit within 1 year Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Vermont? Mechanic's liens are governed by Vt. Stat. Ann. Title 9 §1921 et seq.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/vermont>

Vermont — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Virginia

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required on residential (1-4 family) projects where owner designates a Mechanics Lien Agent on the building permit; not required on commercial projects

**Notice name:** Preliminary Notice

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 30

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Va. Code §43-1 et seq.

> 90-day notice for remote claimants, and a one-year deadline to sue on covered public contracts. Read the Guide <https://www.mechanicslien.com/blog/thing-consider-filing-mechanics-lien-in-virginia> 10 Things to Consider When Filing a Mechanics Lien in Virginia Virginia mechanics lien filing involves the unpaid-balance rule, preliminary notice and lien deadlines, licensing, notarization, and mailing requirements. Read the Guide Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanic liens in Virginia? Mechanic liens in Virginia are governed by Va. Code §43-1 et seq. (§43-1 to §43-23.2 for mechanic liens, §43-64 to §43-71 for enforcement). Public works payment bonds are governed by Va. Code §2-2-4337, requiring a 100% bond on contracts over $100,000. Is a preliminary notice required to file a mechanic lien in Virginia? For residential projects (1-2 family dwellings) where a Mechanic's Lien Agent is designated on the building permit, notice must be given to the agent within 30 days of first performance or 30 days after permit issuance.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/virginia>

Virginia — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Washington D.C.

**Preliminary notice required:** yes

**Notice name:** Notice of Intention

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** D.C. Code Ann. Division VII, Title 40, Chapter 3

> 180-day enforcement period for private mechanic liens, public works bond claim suit deadlines, and filing timing requirements Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What construction mechanic lien rights are available in Washington D.C.? Washington D.C. provides mechanic lien rights for private works under D.C. Code Ann. Division VII, Title 40, Chapter 3. Contractors, laborers, and subcontractors may file a mechanic lien by recording a Notice of Intention with the Recorder of Deeds within 90 days of last performance.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/washington-dc>

Washington D.C. — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Washington

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required for suppliers to GC and remote claimants on most work types; first-tier subcontractors to prime are exempt on new construction and commercial/multifamily but must give notice on owner-occupied residential remodels; no deadline, but a look-back window applies

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to Claim Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** no deadline — notice limits look-back to 60 days (10 days for new single-family residence)

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 90

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 90

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 240

**Lien scope:** unpaid balance

**Late notice consequence:** partial

**Statute:** RCW Chapter 60.04

> Read the Guide <https://www.mechanicslien.com/blog/understanding-washington-state-lien-laws> Understanding Washington State Lien Laws Washington lien law explained: the notice of right to claim lien and its 60-day look-back, the 90-day recording deadline, and the eight-month enforcement window. Read the Guide Frequently Asked Questions What statute governs mechanics liens in Washington? RCW Chapter 60.04.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/washington>

Washington — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_scope, notice_deadline_gc_days, notice_deadline_sub_days, preliminary_notice_required


**State:** West Virginia

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — not required for GC; subcontractors and suppliers not in privity with owner must serve notice to owner within 30 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Mechanic's Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** not required

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 100

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 100

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** W. Va. Code §38-2-1 et seq.

> W. Va. Code §38-2-1 et seq. — Private Works, Notice to Owner & Public Project Bond Claims <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/west-virginia> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free WV Deadline Calculator Calculate your West Virginia deadlines and get a free consultation. West Virginia mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. West Virginia Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement Not Required 100

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/west-virginia>

West Virginia — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role


**State:** Wisconsin

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — required on residential (1-4 family) projects; on commercial projects, only the Notice of Intent to File (30 days before recording) is required for all claimants

**Notice name:** Notice of Intent to File Claim for Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** 30

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 60

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 180

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 180

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 730

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Wis. Stats. §779.01 through §779.13

> Wis. Stats. §779.01 Through §779.13 — Private Works, Payment Bonds, Mechanic Lien on Funds & Public Projects <https://app.mechanicslien.com/?mode=sign-up> Create Your Account <https://www.mechanicslien.com/get-help/wisconsin> File a Claim <tel:+18004327799> Call (800) 432-7799 Free WI Deadline Calculator Calculate your Wisconsin deadlines and get a free consultation. Wisconsin mechanic lien deadline table with toggles for project type and claimant type. Wisconsin Preliminary Notice & Mechanic Lien Deadlines Select your project type and role to see the deadlines that apply to you. Project Type Private Projects Public Works Select Your Tier Prime Contractor Subcontractors & Suppliers Remote Claimants Is this an owner-occupied, single-family residence? No Yes Prime Contractor — In privity with the property owner Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien Enforcement 30 days All claimants — including the prime — must serve a Notice of Intent to File Claim for Lien on the owner at least 30 days before recording the Claim for Lien.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/wisconsin>

Wisconsin — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role

enforcement_deadline_days, late_notice_consequence, lien_recording_deadline_gc_days, lien_recording_deadline_sub_days, notice_deadline_sub_days


**State:** Wyoming

**Preliminary notice required:** conditional — GC must deliver Notice of Right to File a Lien to owner before first payment; subcontractors must serve same within 30 days of first furnishing

**Notice name:** Notice of Right to File a Lien

**Notice deadline — GC (days):** before first payment

**Notice deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 30

**Lien recording deadline — GC (days):** 150

**Lien recording deadline — sub/supplier (days):** 120

**Enforcement deadline (days):** 180

**Late notice consequence:** forfeiture

**Statute:** Wyo. Stat. §29-2-101 et seq.

> Send Preliminary Notice Mechanic Lien 150 days Record the Lien Statement within 150 days after last furnishing of labor or materials or substantial completion of the contract. File Mechanic Lien Enforcement 180 days Commence action within 180 days after filing the Lien Statement. File a Lawsuit Wyoming private project deadlines Prime Contractor Preliminary Notice: Deliver a Notice of Right to File a Lien to the property owner before receiving any payment from the owner. Before filing the Lien Statement, also serve a Notice of Intent to Lien on the owner at least 20 days before recording the lien. Mechanic Lien: Record the Lien Statement within 150 days after last furnishing of labor or materials or substantial completion of the contract. Enforcement: Commence action within 180 days after filing the Lien Statement. Subcontractors & Suppliers Preliminary Notice: Serve a Notice of Right to File a Lien on the property owner within 30 days after first furnishing labor or materials. Before filing the Lien Statement, also serve a Notice of Intent to Lien on the owner at least 20 days before recording the lien. Mechanic Lien: Record the Lien Statement within 120 days after last furnishing of labor or materials.

Source: <https://mechanicslien.com/wyoming>

Wyoming — Mechanics lien filing deadlines, preliminary notice requirements, and enforcement windows by US state and party role