What is a Mechanic's Lien?

A Mechanic’s Lien is a legal claim created by law, allowing a person such as a contractor, subcontractor, laborer, supplier, or other individual who has provided materials or services for the improvement of property to protect their right to payment for the work done. In South Carolina, a Mechanic’s Lien may be filed by these parties in the court of common pleas in the county where the property is located, provided that they have not been paid the amount due for the services and/or materials. A Mechanic’s Lien is a relatively powerful tool for those who are owed money for work they have done, as it essentially secures the debt by granting the lienholder an interest in the property itself. This means that if the lienholder does not receive the payment they are owed, they can initiate foreclosure proceedings to take ownership of the property. Creditors should be aware that in South Carolina, all Mechanic’s Liens must be claimed within six months of the date on which the labor was last performed or materials were last furnished for the project in question. If the lien is not filed within this period, the lienholder may not be able to secure payment for their services or materials.

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