Mechanic's Liens and Bond Claims: Protecting Your Right to Get Paid
In the construction industry, cash flow is everything. When payments are delayed or withheld, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers face serious financial strain. Mechanic’s liens and bond claims are powerful legal tools that help construction professionals secure payment for work performed and materials supplied.
At Grae & Grae LLC, we help construction businesses file, enforce, and defend against mechanic’s liens and bond claims, ensuring that they receive the compensation they are rightfully owed. Whether working on private or public projects, our legal team guides you through the process, ensuring compliance with state-specific deadlines and regulations to protect your financial interests.
How We Help With Liens & Bond Claims:
01
Filing Mechanic’s Liens
- Preparing and filing valid mechanic’s liens in compliance with state laws.
- Ensuring proper documentation of labor, materials, and unpaid balances.
02
Mechanic’s Lien Enforcement & Foreclosure
- Taking legal action to enforce a lien and recover payment.
- Pursuing foreclosure actions when necessary.
03
Bond Claims on Public Projects
- Filing claims against payment bonds on federal, state, and municipal projects.
- Assisting subcontractors and suppliers in recovering unpaid funds.
04
Defending Against Improper Liens
- Challenging fraudulent or improperly filed mechanic’s liens.
- Removing liens that do not meet legal requirements.
05
Lien & Bond Claim Deadlines & Compliance
- Ensuring all notice and filing deadlines are met to protect lien rights.
- Advising on proper pre-lien notice requirements for different states.
06
Negotiating & Settling Lien Disputes
- Working with owners, contractors, and project stakeholders to resolve payment disputes without litigation.
Mechanic’s Liens vs. Bond Claims:
Understanding the Difference
- Used on private projects
- Filed against property to secure payment
- Requires specific pre-lien notices and filing deadlines
- Can lead to foreclosure action if not resolved
Bond Claim
- Used on public projects
- Filed against a payment bond to recover unpaid amounts
- Must follow government contract and bonding requirements
- Claims are paid through the bonding company
Why These Legal Tools Matter
- Mechanic’s liens increase payment recovery rates by 50% compared to unsecured claims.
- Public project contractors rely on bond claims because mechanic’s liens are not allowed on government properties.
- Improperly filed liens are a leading cause of construction litigation, making legal guidance essential.
A 2023 industry report found that contractors who file mechanic’s liens are paid 3x faster than those who rely on collection efforts alone. Ensuring that you file correctly and on time is critical to securing payment.
FAQ’s
Q: What is a mechanic's lien, and how does it work?
A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim against a property for unpaid construction work or materials. It prevents the property owner from selling or refinancing until the debt is resolved.
Q: Who can file a mechanic's lien?
General contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, laborers, and design professionals may be eligible to file a lien, depending on state laws.
Q: What are the deadlines for filing a mechanic's lien?
Deadlines vary by state and project type but can range from 30 to 180 days after work completion. Missing deadlines can void lien rights.
Q: What is a bond claim, and when should I file one?
A bond claim is a legal demand for payment from a surety bond when a contractor fails to pay subcontractors or suppliers on a public project.
Q: What happens if a mechanic's lien is ignored?
If unpaid, the lienholder may file a foreclosure lawsuit, forcing the sale of the property to recover funds.
Q: Can a mechanic's lien be removed?
Yes. Liens can be removed if they are improperly filed, paid off, or successfully challenged in court.
Why Choose Grae & Grae LLC for Lien & Bond Claim Services?
- Construction Payment Experts: We have a proven track record of helping contractors recover unpaid funds.
- State-Specific Knowledge: Our team understands the complex lien and bond claim laws in your jurisdiction.
- Fast & Efficient Filing: We ensure timely, accurate submissions to preserve your lien rights.
- Aggressive Payment Recovery: We negotiate settlements, enforce liens, and litigate when necessary.
Secure Your Right to Payment, Act Now
If you’re facing payment delays, non-payment, or wrongful lien filings, don’t wait. Mechanic’s liens and bond claims are time-sensitive, and missing a deadline can mean losing your right to recover funds.
At Grae & Grae LLC, we work diligently to ensure that you get paid for the work you’ve completed.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and protect your financial interests.