Virginia

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?

Only for 1-2 family residential with lien agent named; optional Notice of Intent within 30 days of first furnishing

Lien Filing Deadline

File by:

90 days after last furnishing (or 90 days after completion if owner of <3 units)

Foreclosure Deadline

Enforce by:

6 months after recording memorandum of lien (or 60 days after demand)

Statutory Authority

Where found:

Va. Code Ann. §§ 43-1 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 memorandum of mechanic's lien with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the city or county where the property is located. Must include property description, amount claimed, and name of owner.

Important Notes:

Quick Deadline Timeline

Contract
Signed

Work Begins
Signed

Preliminary
Notice

Only for 1-2 family residential with lien agent named; optional Notice of Intent within 30 days of first furnishing

Last
Furnishing

File Lien

90 days after last furnishing (or 90 days after completion if owner of <3 units)

Enforce Lien

6 months after recording memorandum of lien (or 60 days after demand)