Liens filed on private property or on funds relating to a public project are known as Mechanics’ Liens. When a lien is filed with regard to work performed on privately owned property, it attaches to and encumbers the fee simple ownership of property.
Contractors who have a contract with an owner as well as subcontractors and suppliers who have a contract with a contractor can file a Connecticut mechanics lien. Design professionals may also file connecticut construction liens.
Prior to filing a mechanics lien, some contrators should file a pre-notice, letting the owner know that you are eligible to file a construction lien. A notice of intent to lien is required for those who do not have a direct agreement with the owner for the work or materials/services provided. A Notice of intent to lien should be served after work has commenced, but no later than 90 days after work has ceased.
With regard to the Connecticut construction lien itself, on private property it must be filed within 90 days of the last date the lienor provided materials or services to the Project. This includes punch list work, and work related to the completion of the contract. It does not necessarily include repair work.
Filing a mechanics lien in Connecticut can help you get paid because it places an encumbrance on the property that makes it difficult to resell or re-finance the property without first removing the lien. This provides incentive to the owner to make sure all claimants are paid.
For more information on filing a Connecticut Construction Lien, a Connecticut Mechanics Lien, a Connecticut Stop Notice, or a Connecticut pre-lien notice, please visit http://www.lienitnow.com/connecticut-faq.asp.