Codes & compliance · Glossary
Mechanics lien
Also called: contractor lien, construction lien
A mechanics lien is a legal claim filed against a property by a contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier who has not been paid for work performed or materials delivered. A lien clouds title and can block a sale or refinance until resolved. State laws set strict notice and filing deadlines.
Why this matters for renovation projects
Mechanics lien shows up on permits, contracts, or estimates that Renology covers across LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Denver. Most homeowners encounter the term once a project is already mid-flight, when there is no time to learn its mechanics without slowing the contractor. Knowing what it means before signing the contract is the difference between a clean project and an avoidable surprise. For how Renology calibrates cost ranges against permit valuations and contractor invoices, see the methodology.