Mechanics Lien California: Requirements, Deadlines & How to File
Your complete guide to California mechanics lien rights and filing process.
File Your Lien TodayWhat is a California Mechanics Lien?
A California mechanics lien (also known as a construction lien) is a legal claim against a property by unpaid contractors, subcontractors, or material suppliers. Governed by California Civil Code § 8416, it secures payment for labor or materials provided to a private construction project by attaching directly to the property’s title.
Filing a mechanics lien in California creates a legal claim that property owners cannot ignore, often halting a sale or refinance until you are paid. However, because this is such a powerful tool, California’s lien laws are incredibly complex and time-sensitive. Missing a single statutory deadline can invalidate your entire claim.
California Deadlines
There are different timeframes involved in California mechanics liens, and it is crucial to keep them in mind when you are filing to maximize your lien rights.
For Subs/Laborers
Preliminary Notice Deadlines
20 Days
The preliminary notice, informing the property owner and contractor of your involvement in the project, should be served within 20 days of starting work or supplying materials and equipment, as required by California construction law.
Send NowMechanics Lien Deadlines
*90 Days
Subcontractors in California can file for a mechanics lien within 90 days from project completion. *However, when the project owner files a notice of completion, the time to file a lien will be shortened to 30 days for subcontractors and suppliers from the time the Notice of Completion was filed. Aside from filing a notice of completion, the project owner may also file a notice of cessation — a notice that informs the involved parties that the construction project has stopped — to shorten the timeframe for filing a mechanics lien in California. The same deadline applies after the notice has been formally recorded.
File NowFor Suppliers/Others
Preliminary Notice Deadlines
20 Days
The preliminary notice, informing the property owner of your involvement in the project, should be served within 20 days of starting work or supplying materials and equipment, as required by California construction law.
Send NowMechanics Lien Deadlines
*90 Days
Material suppliers in California can file for a mechanics lien within 90 days from project completion. *However, when the project owner files a notice of completion, the time to file a lien will be shortened to 30 days for subcontractors and suppliers from the time the notice of completion was filed. Aside from filing a notice of completion, the project owner may also file a notice of cessation — a notice that informs the involved parties that the construction project has stopped — to shorten the timeframe for filing a mechanics lien in California. The same deadline applies after the notice has been formally recorded.
File NowGeneral Contractors
Preliminary Notice Deadlines
20 Days
The preliminary notice, informing the property owner of your involvement in the project, should be served within 20 days of starting work or supplying materials and equipment, as required by California construction law.
Send NowMechanics Lien Deadlines
*90 Days
General contractors in California can file for a mechanics lien within 90 days from project completion. *However, when the project owner files a notice of completion, the time to file a lien will be shortened to 60 days for general contractors from the time the notice of completion was filed. Aside from filing a notice of completion, the project owner may also file a notice of cessation — a notice that informs the involved parties that the construction project has stopped — to shorten the timeframe for filing a mechanics lien in California. The same deadline applies after the notice has been formally recorded.
File NowHow To File A Mechanics Lien In California
To file your California mechanics’ lien, follow these simple steps:
Confirm Your Eligibility
You must have provided labor, materials, or services for a California construction project and remain unpaid.
Serve a preliminary 20-day notice
Required for most claimants under California Civil Code § 8200. Without it, you may lose your lien rights.
Complete the California mechanics lien form
Include the property description, claimant info, claimed amount, and a statement of the claim.
Serve the lien on the property owner
A copy of the signed lien must be delivered to the owner before recording.
Record the lien with the County Recorder
File at the County Recorder’s Office in the county where the property is located. Fees range from $75 to $120.
Enforce or release the lien
If unpaid, file an enforcement lawsuit within 90 days. If paid, file a release of lien.
Download The FREE California Lien Cheat Sheet
"*" indicates required fields
California Mechanics Lien Articles
Learn more about how to file a mechanics lien in California.
How to File a Mechanics Lien in California: 5 Steps
Learn how to file a mechanics lien in California with our step-by-step guide, requirements checklist, and deadline summary.
Read Article
California Mechanics Lien Deadlines: The Complete 2026 Guide
Learn key deadlines for filing California mechanics’ liens and ensure you secure payments efficiently. Discover how Northwest Lien can assist in your filing process.
Read Article
How to Send a California 20-day Preliminary Notice: Complete Guide
Learn how to send a 20-day California Preliminary Notice effectively with this step-by-step guide.
Read ArticleTalk To A Lien Specialist
You can reach our California lien specialists at (310) 750-0697 Monday – Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM or feel free to contact us using the below form.
"*" indicates required fields
