What Is a Mechanics Lien in Colorado — Complete 2026 Guide
Colorado mechanics lien law gives all claimants 4 months from last furnishing to file under C.R.S. § 38-22-109. The enforcement clock runs from last furnishing — not from the recording date — which is Colorado's most critical distinction. Residential projects require a 10-day Notice of Intent before filing.
Colorado 4-Month Filing Deadline
Colorado gives all mechanics lien claimants — contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers — 4 months from the last date of furnishing labor or materials to record a mechanics lien with the County Clerk and Recorder under C.R.S. § 38-22-109. If the owner records a Notice of Completion, the deadline for subcontractors and suppliers is shortened to 2 months from the recording of that notice.
Colorado's Unique Enforcement Clock
Colorado has one of the most important distinctions in mechanics lien law: the enforcement clock runs from the last date of furnishing — not from the date the lien was recorded. This means a Colorado lienor who files near the 4-month deadline may have very little time remaining to file an enforcement lawsuit. Colorado gives claimants 6 months from last furnishing to commence a foreclosure action, so strategic timing of the lien filing is critical.
Colorado Notice of Intent to Lien
Colorado subcontractors and material suppliers on residential projects must serve a Notice of Intent to File a Mechanics Lien on the property owner at least 10 days before filing the lien. This notice gives the owner a final opportunity to pay before the lien is recorded. The notice must be delivered by personal service or certified mail.
Where to File in Colorado
Colorado mechanics liens are recorded with the County Clerk and Recorder in the county where the project property is located. Major recording offices include the Denver County Clerk and Recorder, El Paso County (Colorado Springs), Jefferson County, and Arapahoe County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mechanics lien deadline in Colorado?
Colorado gives all claimants 4 months from the last date of furnishing labor or materials to record a mechanics lien. If a Notice of Completion is recorded, subcontractors have only 2 months from that recording date.
Why does Colorado's enforcement clock run from last furnishing?
Colorado's 6-month enforcement period runs from the last date of furnishing — not from the lien recording date. This means if you file your lien near the 4-month deadline, you may only have 2 months remaining to file an enforcement lawsuit.
Is a Notice of Intent required in Colorado?
Yes, on residential projects. Colorado subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Notice of Intent to File at least 10 days before recording the lien.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in Colorado?
Record the lien with the County Clerk and Recorder in the county where the project property is located.