What Is a Mechanics Lien in Arizona — Complete 2026 Guide
Arizona mechanics lien law requires subcontractors and suppliers to serve a 20-Day Preliminary Notice within 20 days of first furnishing under A.R.S. § 33-992.01. General contractors have 120 days to file; subcontractors have only 60 days from project completion. Enforcement must begin within 6 months of recording.
Arizona 20-Day Preliminary Notice
Arizona subcontractors, sub-subcontractors, and material suppliers must serve a Preliminary 20-Day Notice on the property owner, the original contractor, and the construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials under A.R.S. § 33-992.01. Failure to serve this notice eliminates lien rights for any work done more than 20 days before the notice was served. The notice must be served by certified mail or personal service.
Arizona Filing Deadlines — GC vs. Subcontractor
Arizona has different filing deadlines based on claimant role. Original contractors (with a direct contract with the owner) have 120 days from the last date of furnishing to record a mechanics lien. Subcontractors, sub-subcontractors, and material suppliers have only 60 days from the date the original contract is substantially completed, terminated, or abandoned. The shorter 60-day deadline for subcontractors catches many claimants off guard.
Where to File in Arizona
Arizona mechanics liens are recorded with the County Recorder in the county where the project property is located. Major recording offices include the Maricopa County Recorder (Phoenix/Scottsdale), Pima County Recorder (Tucson), and Yavapai County Recorder (Prescott). Arizona allows electronic recording in most counties.
Arizona Lien Enforcement — 6 Months
After recording a mechanics lien in Arizona, the claimant must enforce the lien by filing a foreclosure lawsuit in Superior Court within 6 months of the date the lien was recorded. Arizona's 6-month enforcement window is shorter than most states. If no lawsuit is filed within 6 months, the lien expires automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mechanics lien deadline in Arizona?
Original contractors have 120 days from last furnishing. Subcontractors and suppliers have 60 days from the date the original contract is substantially completed, terminated, or abandoned.
What is the Preliminary 20-Day Notice requirement in Arizona?
Arizona subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Preliminary 20-Day Notice within 20 days of first furnishing to preserve full lien rights. Missing this deadline eliminates lien rights for work done before the 20-day window.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in Arizona?
Record the lien with the County Recorder in the county where the project property is located.
How long do I have to enforce an Arizona mechanics lien?
Arizona gives lienors 6 months from the recording date to file a foreclosure lawsuit in Superior Court. Missing this deadline automatically extinguishes the lien.