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California
Mechanic's Lien
Deadlines & Filing Guide
Know your notice requirements, lien filing deadlines, and foreclosure deadlines before you lose your rights.
GET YOUR LIEN TOOLKIT
Required?
Within 20 days of first providing labor/materials
File by:
Earlier of 90 days after completion or 60 days (direct contractors)/30 days (others) after Notice of Completion/Cessation
Enforce by:
90 days after filing lien
Where found:
Cal. Civ. Code §§ 8000–8848 (formerly §§ 3082–3267)
Record a claim of mechanics lien with the County Recorder in the county where the property is located. Must include a description of the work, amount of lien, property description, and name of owner. Use statutory form per Cal. Civ. Code § 8416.
Strict preliminary notice requirements for all claimants except laborers.
Contract
Signed
Work Begins
Signed
Preliminary
Notice
Within 20 days of first providing labor/materials
Last
Furnishing
File Lien
Earlier of 90 days after completion or 60 days (direct contractors)/30 days (others) after Notice of Completion/Cessation
Enforce Lien
90 days after filing lien