What is the process for filing a lien for unpaid work in construction?

In Florida, filing a lien for unpaid work in construction requires following a precise legal process. Generally, a lien is a document that is filed with the county clerk advising potential buyers or creditors that the property in question is being claimed for a debt due to a contractor or supplier for labor and materials. The lien process begins by sending a Notice to Owner (NTO) at least 45 days prior to filing the lien. The NTO is a document that informs the owner that they are likely to be billed for unpaid services to their property. The notice must have certain information included such as the amount of money due, the name of the lienholder, and the work that was done. After the notice is sent, the property owner must be given 20 days to respond and pay any amounts due before the lien can be filed. If the owner does not respond within the 20-day period, then the contractor or supplier can file a lien. The lien must include the name of the lienholder, the amount of money owed, and the property address. It must be filed with the county clerk and the lienholder may be required to post a copy of the lien on the property. If payment still does not come after 120 days, then the lienholder may be able to begin foreclosure proceedings. This process can be very risky, so it is important for contractors or suppliers to always be mindful of the process when filing a lien in Florida.

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What is the process for filing a lien for unpaid work in construction?

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