Connecticut Mechanics Lien — Deadlines and Filing Guide
Connecticut mechanics lien law under Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 49-33 through 49-40 gives contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers lien rights for unpaid construction work. The deadline to file a Connecticut mechanics lien is 90 days from last furnishing. Connecticut uses towns — not counties — as its jurisdictional units. Enforcement must begin within 1 year of filing.
Connecticut Mechanics Lien Deadlines
Connecticut mechanics lien deadlines give all claimants 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials to file a lien under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 49-34. Connecticut does not require a preliminary notice before filing. The lien is filed with the Town Clerk — not a county recorder — because Connecticut is organized by towns rather than counties. The enforcement deadline is 1 year from the date the lien is filed.
Connecticut Towns — Not Counties
Connecticut is one of a small number of states that uses towns as its primary jurisdictional unit rather than counties. Connecticut mechanics liens are filed with the Town Clerk in the town where the project property is located. Connecticut has 169 towns. Major Connecticut construction markets include the town of Hartford, Greenwich, Stamford, New Haven, and Bridgeport. Identify the correct town before filing using the Mechanics Lien Management State System.
Connecticut Mechanics Lien Enforcement
Connecticut mechanics liens must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 1 year of the lien filing date under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 49-39. Connecticut's 1-year enforcement window gives claimants reasonable time to negotiate payment before litigation. Track both the 90-day filing deadline and the 1-year enforcement deadline with Mechanics Lien Management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to file a mechanics lien in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 49-34.
Does Connecticut require a preliminary notice?
No. Connecticut does not require a preliminary notice before filing a mechanics lien.
Where do you file a mechanics lien in Connecticut?
Connecticut mechanics liens are filed with the Town Clerk in the town where the property is located. Connecticut uses towns — not counties — as its jurisdictional units.
How long does a Connecticut mechanics lien last?
After filing, a Connecticut mechanics lien must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 1 year of the filing date under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 49-39.