Liens

California Mechanics Lien Deadlines

Updated September 2026

A mechanics lien is a claim against a property, like a mortgage, recorded with the county. Unpaid contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and workers can use one to get paid. The exam loves the deadlines, so here is the whole timeline in order.

Step 1 - the 20-day preliminary notice

Subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a preliminary notice within 20 days after they start work or deliver materials. It warns the owner that they could lien the property if they are not paid - the notice itself is not a lien.

A notice served late still works, but only for work or materials furnished starting 20 days before the notice and after. A prime contractor who contracts directly with the owner does not need to send one, and neither do laborers working for wages.

Step 2 - the notice of completion

When the job is done, the owner may record a notice of completion within 15 days. Doing so shortens everyone else's deadline to record a lien.

Step 3 - recording the lien

The lien and the Notice of Mechanics Lien must also be served on the property owner.

Step 4 - the lawsuit

The claimant must file a lawsuit to foreclose the lien within 90 days of recording it. If they miss that, the owner can petition the court to release the property from the lien.

Lien releases

California has four statutory waiver and release forms, and a release only works if it substantially follows one of them. A conditional release takes effect only once the claimant is actually paid; an unconditional release is signed after the money has cleared.

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