Tennessee Mechanics Lien — Deadlines, Laws, and Filing Guide
Tennessee mechanics lien law is governed by Tennessee Code Annotated Title 66, Chapter 11. Tennessee has a 90-day filing deadline from the last date of furnishing labor or materials. Subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Notice of Nonpayment within 90 days of last furnishing as a condition precedent to filing a lien. This guide covers Tennessee lien rights in 2026.
Tennessee Mechanics Lien Deadline
In Tennessee, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials under Tennessee Code Annotated Section 66-11-112. This 90-day deadline applies to all lien claimants — general contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and design professionals. Missing this hard deadline permanently eliminates Tennessee construction payment rights.
Notice of Nonpayment Requirement in Tennessee
Tennessee subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Notice of Nonpayment on the prime contractor and property owner within 90 days of their last date of furnishing labor or materials. This notice is a condition precedent to filing a mechanics lien for all parties not in direct contract with the property owner. Failing to serve the Notice of Nonpayment eliminates lien rights for Tennessee subcontractors and suppliers.
Tennessee Lien Enforcement Deadline
After filing a mechanics lien in Tennessee, the lienor must enforce the lien by filing a foreclosure lawsuit within 1 year of the date the lien was filed. The claimant must also give the owner notice of the lawsuit within 30 days of filing. If no enforcement lawsuit is filed within the 1-year window, the Tennessee mechanics lien expires permanently.
Where to File a Mechanics Lien in Tennessee
In Tennessee, mechanics liens are filed with the register of deeds in the county where the project property is located. Major filing offices include Davidson County (Nashville), Shelby County (Memphis), Knox County (Knoxville), and Hamilton County (Chattanooga).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the deadline is 90 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials under Tennessee Code Annotated 66-11-112.
What is the Notice of Nonpayment requirement in Tennessee?
Tennessee subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Notice of Nonpayment on the prime contractor and property owner within 90 days of last furnishing to preserve lien rights.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in Tennessee?
File with the register of deeds in the county where the project property is located.