Mechanic’s Lien: A Power Tool for Contractors

Contractors whose clients will not pay them can turn to the mechanic’s lien for help. Real Estate Attorney Boyd Rolfson explains how filing a mechanic’s lien can get contractors paid.

Get Help Filing a Mechanic’s Lien

The state’s mechanic’s lien regulations must be exactly followed in order to have a successful outcome. Begin your case assessment today. Call 303-688-0944 or click here to schedule online.

When Remodeling & Building Projects Come Off the Rails

Most remodeling projects progress pretty smoothly. There may be a glitch here or there but usually nothing significant enough to derail the entire project. But as we all know, stuff happens. Sometimes that stuff can be serious enough to send a contractor packing.

The Powerful Mechanic’s Lien

If you have completed work on a client’s project you do not have to go home empty-handed after a falling out.

There is an effective way to get a client to pay for the work you did or the supplies you delivered for their project.

If a client fails to pay a contractor or a subcontractor, he or she can utilize the mechanic’s lien. Filing a mechanic’s lien is filing a legal claim against a home or other property.

Certain Conditions Must Be Met

Filing a mechanic’s lien can be done whether a contractor completed work on a project or just provided materials to the job site.

When a mechanic’s lien is filed on a property, it prevents the property owner from selling or refinancing it. In fact, the property owner cannot complete any transaction on the property until you get paid. As you can see, filing a mechanic’s lien is definitely an effective tool to get you paid when a homeowner refuses to cough up the money.

A Mechanic’s Lien Can for a Foreclosure

Followed to its logical conclusion, a mechanic’s lien can force a homeowner into foreclosure and lose their home. That’s what makes it such a powerful tool and why it is so restrictive. The court takes this power very seriously.

Most Cases Resolve Before Foreclosure

Generally, most mechanic’s lien cases are resolved well before it comes to someone losing their property when a lien is filed. That’s why these are such a great tool to get you paid.

Filing a Mechanic’s Lien is Complex

You may consider getting some legal help when you decide to file a mechanic’s lien. The process involves many deadlines and a lot of specific documentation regarding the project.

And, the fact that you might not be familiar with the legal system will not bring you any sympathy from the court if you happen to miss a deadline or make a mistake when filing. These kinds of mistakes could invalidate your lien.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

Many contractors reach out to an attorney after they discover a mistake filing a mechanic’s lien, which could be too late.

At Robinson & Henry, we have a department of attorneys dedicated to Real Estate Law. We are here to answer your questions and help you through the process of filing a mechanic’s lien from start to finish.

Set Up Your Case Assessment

Call 303-688-0944 or set it up online when you click here.