CONTRACTOR GLOSSARY · LIEN & LEGAL
What is a Mechanics lien?
A mechanics lien is a legal claim recorded against a property for unpaid construction work or materials — the strongest collection tool contractors and subs have.
Unlike a lawsuit against a person or company, a mechanics lien attaches to the property that was improved. It clouds title — complicating sale and refinancing — which gives everyone above you a concrete reason to resolve your unpaid balance. For subs with no contract with the owner, it's often the only direct leverage on the party who ultimately holds the money.
Lien rights are powerful and perishable. Every state sets strict deadlines — often requiring preliminary notices early in the job, filing within a window measured from last work, and an enforcement suit within a further window. Miss a step and the right evaporates regardless of how legitimate the debt is.
The operational takeaway: lien rights are a deadline-tracking problem. Know your first and last work dates on every job, send required notices on time, and calendar the filing window before you need it. See our state lien guides and free deadline calculator for specifics.
Common questions
Can a subcontractor file a mechanics lien without a contract with the owner?
Generally yes — that's the core purpose of lien law — but most states condition it on timely preliminary notices and strict filing deadlines. State rules vary significantly.
What are the typical mechanics lien deadlines?
They vary by state: preliminary notices sometimes due within days of starting work, filing windows commonly measured in months from last work, and enforcement deadlines after filing. Use a state-specific guide or calculator.
RevnuPros tracks the thing, not just the word
Permits to sign-off, T&M tags to signature, materials to billed through, retainage to released — built for subcontractors. Browse the full contractor glossary or the Massachusetts permit guide.
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