Mechanics lien state guides and preparation tools

Choose the state where the improved property is located. A contractor's business address does not determine the property's lien procedure. These twelve guides explain different notice, filing, and enforcement workflows; the available paid generators are identified separately below.

Find the guide for your property

ArizonaCompletion, 20-day notice, and 120/60-day recording periodsGuide + paid preparation toolCaliforniaProject completion, preliminary notices, and owner serviceGuide + paid preparation toolColoradoTen-day notice of intent and separate recording and enforcement clocksState filing guideFloridaNotice to Owner, 90-day recording, and shortened enforcement periodsState filing guideGeorgia90-day recording and two-business-day deliveryGuide + paid preparation toolIllinoisSubcontractor notices and four-month third-party protectionState filing guideMichigan90-day recording and 15-day service on the owner or designeeGuide + paid preparation toolNew YorkFour/eight-month filing and proof of owner serviceState filing guideNorth CarolinaLien agents, liens upon funds, and 120/180-day deadlinesState filing guideOhioProperty classification and 60/75-day recording periodsGuide + paid preparation toolTexasMonth-based filing, monthly notices, and retainageGuide + paid preparation toolWashington90-day recording, owner service, and eight-month enforcementGuide + paid preparation tool

Compare the task, office, and clock

Start with the contracting role and property type, then identify the event that starts each period. Many states measure a deadline from last furnishing, but Arizona and California require project-completion analysis. Illinois uses four months for third-party protection, and New York distinguishes four- and eight-month filing periods. North Carolina files real-property claims with the clerk of superior court.

Read the state page before applying a date calculator. Separate early notices from recording, owner service, proof filing, and enforcement. A ten-day notice of intent in Colorado needs lead time before filing; Florida's early Notice to Owner starts with first furnishing. Neither should be postponed until the end of an unpaid job.

Mechanics lien tools are available for the following seven property states. Each workflow offers a preview before checkout. Filing, legal review, recording fees, postage, and service are separate responsibilities.

For early Florida notices, use the Florida Notice to Owner tool. It prepares a notice, not a recorded Florida claim of lien. Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Colorado, and Florida lien guides do not currently offer state-specific mechanics lien generators. Do not select another state's generator for those properties.

Build a complete claim file

The form checklist helps gather project records. Match the owner and contracting parties, obtain the property description, reconcile payments and credits, and document the relevant furnishing dates. Keep notice copies and service evidence beside the contract so they can be reviewed together.

If payment arrives, choose the correct follow-through document. A conditional waiver addresses payment-related rights; a release or discharge identifies an already filed claim. Reserve disputed items carefully and keep proof of cleared funds.

Related notice, payment, and release guides

Public projects, bonds, bankruptcy, and missed notices need separate analysis. These guides cover general private-property rules and link to official sources; consult qualified local counsel for a specific claim.