Illinois

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

preliminary notice

Required?

Subcontractors must provide written notice to owner within 90 days after completion

Lien Filing Deadline

File by:

4 months after completion (contractors and subcontractors)

Foreclosure Deadline

Enforce by:

2 years after completion of work (or 30 days if owner demands suit)

Statutory Authority

Where found:

770 ILCS 60/1 et seq.

DEADLINE CALCULATOR

Enter your last day of work to calculate your deadlines.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE
Deadline
—
LIEN FILING
Deadline
—
FORECLOSURE
Deadline
—
Enter your last day of work to see your estimated deadlines.

Where and How to File:

Record a lien claim with the Recorder of Deeds in the county where the property is located. Must include property description, amount due, name of the lien claimant, and date of last work. Subcontractors must send notice to owner.

Important Notes:

Lien recorded within 2 years prevails against original owner.

Quick Deadline Timeline

Contract
Signed

Work Begins
Signed

Preliminary
Notice

Subcontractors must provide written notice to owner within 90 days after completion

Last
Furnishing

File Lien

4 months after completion (contractors and subcontractors)

Enforce Lien

2 years after completion of work (or 30 days if owner demands suit)