Why File

When you, as a contractor or a supplier, perform work or supply materials to a job, you are entitled to be paid.

A Mechanic’s Lien is a legal instrument that blocks the property owner’s ability to freely sell or refinance the property that has been Liened.

A Mechanic’s Lien is a serious instrument that is the first step in recovering your money. It is a matter of public record for the whole world to see that this person did not pay you.

A Mechanic’s Lien shows up in a title search and or judgment search and affects the credit of the debtor and his or her ability to secure financing for current or future projects.

Most debtors immediately take steps to settle the debt after being served with a “Notice of Mechanic’s Lien” on them and their property.

When you work for a General Contractor, and he has been paid by the property owner but has not paid you, the Lien is against the property owner. Now, both you AND the property owner have an interest in making the General Contractor pay you, and you now have even more leverage.

What Mechanic's Liens Are

A mechanic's lien is a legal claim against a property that secures the right to payment for labor or materials provided in the improvement or construction of that property. It is a vital tool available to contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in the construction industry. When a mechanic's lien is filed, it effectively ensures that the property owner cannot sell or refinance the property without first addressing the debt.

Mechanics Lien Extensions

In New York, it is also essential to understand the process of mechanics lien extensions. If you find that your work has not been paid for and time is running out, obtaining an extension on your lien can provide you additional time to pursue your claim without losing your rights. Extensions help maintain your lien's validity while navigating the complexities of negotiation or legal action.

By leveraging the option to file a mechanic’s lien, you can protect your rights and ensure that your hard work doesn’t go unrewarded. Whether you're facing payment delays or seeking to enforce a contractual obligation, understanding the mechanics of lien filings and extensions can make all the difference in securing what you're owed.

Step-by-Step Mechanic’s Lien Filing Process

Prepare the Lien Document: Include property owner details, the amount owed, and the work description.
Serve Notice: Inform the property owner or general contractor before filing the lien.
File the Lien: Submit the lien document to the county clerk’s office and retain a copy.
Follow-Up: Ensure the lien is recorded correctly and monitor the debt.
Enforcement: If unpaid, consider legal action to foreclose on the lien as per state law.