CONTRACTOR GLOSSARY · LIEN & LEGAL
What is a Notice of intent to lien (NOI)?
A notice of intent to lien warns the owner and GC that you will file a mechanics lien if payment isn't made — required in some states, and a powerful collection letter in all of them.
The NOI sits between asking nicely and filing: a formal statement that the debt exists, the lien right exists, and filing is next. A few states require it before a valid lien; everywhere else it's optional but effective — most payment disputes resolve at the NOI stage, because everyone above you would rather pay than manage a recorded lien.
Timing matters: an NOI needs enough runway before your filing deadline that you can still actually file if it's ignored. Sending an NOI a week before your window closes leaves no room for it to work.
Common questions
Is a notice of intent required before filing a lien?
Only in some states — but it's often worth sending regardless, because it resolves most disputes without a filing. Check your state's requirement and time it well before your deadline.
Related terms
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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