What Is a Mechanics Lien in Georgia — Complete 2026 Guide
Georgia mechanics lien law under O.C.G.A. §§ 44-14-361 through 44-14-366 gives contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers 90 days from project completion to file a lien. A Notice of Commencement must be filed at project start. The enforcement deadline is 365 days from filing.
Georgia 90-Day Filing Deadline
In Georgia, all mechanics lien claimants — including general contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers — have 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials to file a lien with the Clerk of Superior Court. This is a hard deadline under O.C.G.A. § 44-14-361.1. Missing it permanently eliminates lien rights for that project.
Georgia Notice of Commencement
Georgia property owners are required to file a Notice of Commencement with the Clerk of Superior Court before construction begins on most projects. This notice identifies the owner, contractor, and lender. When a Notice of Commencement is on file, subcontractors and suppliers must send a Notice to Contractor within 30 days of first furnishing to preserve their lien rights.
Where to File in Georgia
Georgia mechanics liens are filed with the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where the project property is located. Major filing offices include the Fulton County Superior Court Clerk (Atlanta), DeKalb County, Gwinnett County, and Cobb County.
Georgia Lien Enforcement — 365 Days
After filing a mechanics lien in Georgia, the claimant must enforce the lien by filing a lawsuit to foreclose within 365 days of the date the lien was filed. This 1-year enforcement window gives claimants substantial time to negotiate payment before resorting to litigation. The Mechanics Lien Management State System tracks the Georgia enforcement deadline automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mechanics lien deadline in Georgia?
In Georgia, all claimants have 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials to file a mechanics lien with the Clerk of Superior Court.
What is the Notice to Contractor requirement in Georgia?
When a Notice of Commencement is on file, Georgia subcontractors and suppliers must send a Notice to Contractor within 30 days of first furnishing to preserve lien rights.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in Georgia?
File with the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where the project property is located.
How long does a Georgia mechanics lien last?
A Georgia mechanics lien must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 365 days of the filing date or it expires permanently.