California Mechanics Lien — Deadlines, Laws, and Filing Guide
California mechanics lien law is governed by Civil Code Sections 8000 through 9566. California has strict 20-day preliminary notice requirements and a 90-day filing deadline. This guide covers everything contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers need to know to protect their lien rights in California.
California Mechanics Lien Deadlines
In California, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 90 days from project completion or cessation of work. If the owner records a valid Notice of Completion or Cessation, subcontractors and suppliers have only 30 days to file their lien from the date of recording.
California 20-Day Preliminary Notice
California subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a 20-day preliminary notice on the property owner, general contractor, and construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Failure to serve this notice forfeits lien rights for work done more than 20 days before the notice was sent.
Who Can File a Mechanics Lien in California
Under California Civil Code 8400, the following parties can file a mechanics lien: direct contractors, subcontractors of any tier, material suppliers, equipment lessors, laborers, design professionals, and other parties who served a 20-day preliminary notice.
California Lien Filing Requirements
A California mechanics lien must include: the claimant's name and address, a statement of the claimant's demand, the name of the owner, a general statement of the labor or materials furnished, the last date services were furnished, and the name and address of the hiring party.
California Lien Enforcement Deadline
In California, a mechanics lien claimant must file a lawsuit to enforce the lien within 90 days of recording the lien. Failure to do so causes the lien to expire. The claimant must also record a lis pendens in connection with the enforcement lawsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in California?
In California, the deadline is 90 days from completion of the project or cessation of work. If a Notice of Completion is recorded, subcontractors and suppliers have only 30 days from that recording date.
Do I need to send a 20-day preliminary notice in California?
Yes. California subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a 20-day preliminary notice within 20 days of first furnishing. Without this notice, lien rights are limited to work performed within the 20 days before the notice was sent.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in California?
File with the County Recorder's office in the county where the project is located. Major counties include Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Alameda.