Defined term
Mechanics' lien
A mechanics' lien is a statutory security interest in real property held by contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who furnished labor or materials to improve the property.
Mechanics' liens are creatures of statute. They give construction-trade claimants a lien on the project's real property to secure payment for work performed or materials supplied. If unpaid, the lien can be foreclosed in much the same manner as a mortgage.
Deadlines are short and unforgiving. Alabama: four months from last work for original contractors; six months for materialmen and subs without contract privity. Florida: 90 days from final furnishing for the lien itself, with separate Notice-to-Owner deadlines as short as 45 days for non-privity claimants. Missing the deadline kills the lien remedy.
Statutes
- Ala. Code §§ 35-11-210 to 35-11-234
- Fla. Stat. ch. 713