For contractors and subcontractors, late payments can be an
all-too-familiar part of the construction industry. Many assume the
best of intentions—maybe the check is still in the mail?
Maybe there was an emergency around-the-clock project? When it
eventually becomes clear there is a problem, many will still try to
work it out themselves. But all the while, the deadlines for
establishing liens on the project rapidly approach.
Mechanics' liens allow contractors, subcontractors,
suppliers, and other construction professionals to lien on a
construction project for which they have not been paid.
Mechanics' liens function synonymously with materialmen's
liens (which are for suppliers of building materials or equipment)
and may also simply be called "construction liens"
depending on the state.
