Idaho Mechanics Lien — Deadlines and Filing Guide
Idaho mechanics lien law under Idaho Code §§ 45-501 through 45-525 gives contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers lien rights for unpaid construction work. The deadline to file an Idaho mechanics lien is 90 days from the claimant's substantial completion of their work. Residential subcontractors must give a 5-day notice on owner-occupied homes. Enforcement must begin within 6 months of filing.
Idaho Mechanics Lien Deadlines
Idaho mechanics lien deadlines give all claimants 90 days from their substantial completion of work to file a lien with the County Recorder in the county where the property is located under Idaho Code § 45-507. Unlike most states that use last date of furnishing as the trigger, Idaho measures from the claimant's own substantial completion. Residential subcontractors on owner-occupied homes must serve a 5-day notice on the owner before filing. The enforcement deadline is 6 months from filing.
How to File a Mechanics Lien in Idaho
Idaho mechanics liens are filed with the County Recorder in the county where the project property is located. Idaho has 44 counties. Major Idaho construction markets include Ada County (Boise), Canyon County (Nampa/Caldwell), Kootenai County (Coeur d'Alene), Bonneville County (Idaho Falls), and Bannock County (Pocatello). Use the Mechanics Lien Management State System to calculate your exact Idaho filing deadline from your substantial completion date.
Idaho Mechanics Lien Enforcement
Idaho mechanics liens must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 6 months of the lien filing date under Idaho Code § 45-510. Track the enforcement deadline from the lien filing date — not from substantial completion. Use Mechanics Lien Management to monitor both the 90-day filing window from substantial completion and the 6-month enforcement window from the filing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to file a mechanics lien in Idaho?
In Idaho, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 90 days from the claimant's substantial completion of their work under Idaho Code § 45-507.
Does Idaho require a preliminary notice?
Idaho does not require a preliminary notice for most projects. However, residential subcontractors on owner-occupied homes must serve a 5-day notice on the property owner before filing a lien.
Where do you file a mechanics lien in Idaho?
Idaho mechanics liens are filed with the County Recorder in the county where the property is located. Idaho has 44 counties.
How long does an Idaho mechanics lien last?
After filing, an Idaho mechanics lien must be enforced by filing a lawsuit within 6 months of the filing date under Idaho Code § 45-510.