Alabama Mechanics Lien — Deadlines and Filing Guide
Alabama mechanics lien law under Ala. Code §§ 35-11-210 through 35-11-234 gives contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers the right to file a lien against property for unpaid work or materials. The deadline to file an Alabama mechanics lien is 6 months from last furnishing. No preliminary notice is required. Enforcement must begin within 6 months of filing.
Alabama Mechanics Lien Deadlines
Alabama mechanics lien deadlines under Ala. Code § 35-11-215 give all claimants 6 months from the last date of furnishing to file a lien with the Probate Court in the county where the property is located. Alabama does not require a preliminary notice before filing. After filing, a copy must be served on the property owner within a reasonable time. The enforcement deadline is 6 months from the date the lien is filed.
How to File a Mechanics Lien in Alabama
Alabama mechanics liens are filed with the Probate Court — not a county recorder — in the county where the project property is located. Alabama has 67 counties. Major Alabama construction markets include Jefferson County (Birmingham), Mobile County (Mobile), Madison County (Huntsville), Montgomery County (Montgomery), and Shelby County (suburban Birmingham). Use the Mechanics Lien Management State System to calculate your exact Alabama deadline.
Alabama Mechanics Lien Enforcement
Alabama mechanics liens must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 6 months of the lien filing date under Ala. Code § 35-11-221. Alabama's 6-month enforcement window is shorter than many states. Track the enforcement deadline from the correct trigger — the filing date, not the last date of furnishing — and use Mechanics Lien Management to monitor both the filing and enforcement windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to file a mechanics lien in Alabama?
In Alabama, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 6 months from the last date of furnishing labor or materials under Ala. Code § 35-11-215. This applies to all claimant types — general contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers.
Does Alabama require a preliminary notice?
No. Alabama does not require a preliminary notice or pre-lien notice before filing a mechanics lien. General contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers can file a lien without first sending notice to the property owner.
Where do you file a mechanics lien in Alabama?
Alabama mechanics liens are filed with the Probate Court in the county where the property is located. Alabama has 67 counties, each served by a Probate Court that handles real property records.
How long does an Alabama mechanics lien last?
After filing, an Alabama mechanics lien must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 6 months of the filing date. If suit is not filed within 6 months of recording, the lien expires.