What happens after I file a lien?

• Send notice of the filed lien to the property owner and general contractor within 5 business days (if you’re not the GC).
• The lien becomes part of the property’s public record, which can delay sales or refinancing.
• Owners or contractors may try to settle, negotiate, or challenge the lien.
• If unpaid, you must file a foreclosure lawsuit within 1 year (or 6 months for residential projects).
• After payment, you’re required to file a Lien Release to clear the property’s title.

Once you file a lien affidavit with the county clerk, the process doesn’t end there. If you’re not the general contractor, you’re legally required to send a copy of the filed lien to both the property owner and the general contractor within 5 business days. This step is crucial to ensure your lien remains valid. Once recorded, the lien becomes part of the property’s public record, which can delay a sale or refinancing—often prompting the owner or contractor to take action.

Most property owners don’t want a lien hanging over their property. In many cases, they’ll reach out to settle the debt, negotiate a partial payment, escrow funds while a dispute is resolved, or even challenge the lien’s validity. If the dispute isn’t resolved, you may need to file a lien foreclosure lawsuit—which must be done within 1 year of filing the lien (or 6 months for residential projects). This lawsuit could result in the property being sold to satisfy the debt. Finally, if you receive payment, you’re required to file a Lien Release with the county clerk promptly to remove the lien from the property’s title.