Intermediate · Lesson 2 · 7 min
Deadlines and Notice Requirements
The calendar is the lien. Missed deadlines are the single most common cause of lost rights.
Overview
Lien deadlines are statutory and almost never extended.
Notice requirements typically come in waves: preliminary notice → notice of intent to lien → recording the lien → suit to foreclose.
Key Concepts
- • Counting from the right trigger date (last day of work vs. last delivery vs. completion)
- • Service requirements (certified mail, personal service, recording)
- • Statutes of limitation for suit to foreclose
Common Mistakes
- • Treating the invoice date as the deadline trigger — it rarely is.
- • Sending notice to the wrong party (e.g., property manager instead of owner of record).
Practical Examples
One day late
A claimant files a lien one business day after the statutory window. The lien is void on its face. The underlying receivable still exists, but the secured position is gone.
Downloadable Resources
Download Lesson PDF
Educational use only. Not legal advice. Lien rules vary by state — consult licensed counsel.