Mechanics lien

A mechanics lien is a claim recorded against real property by a contractor, subcontractor or supplier who has not been paid for labor or materials that improved the property. It clouds the title and can, through a foreclosure process, force payment from the property's value. It applies on private work; on public projects, payment bond claims generally take its place because public property cannot be liened.

Lien rights are created by state statute, and the rules are strict: many states require a preliminary notice early in the job, set deadlines for recording the lien that run from completion or last work, and require a lawsuit to enforce it within a stated period. Missing a step usually forfeits the right.