To obtain a judgment lien, you must first record the judgment with the court of common pleas in the county where the debtor owns property. The lien will stay in effect for five years, but can be renewed, if the debtor does not sell the property within that time period.
File the lien: A construction lien is typically filed with the county clerk in which the project is located. The paperwork and filing requirements vary by state, but will usually involve listing the work performed, the unpaid amount(s) at issue, as well as attaching copies of contracts and any required notices.
Steps to File a Valid Pennsylvania Mechanics Lien Send Preliminary Notice Within 30 Days. Send Pre-Lien Notice at Least 30 Days Before Filing. File Your Lien Claim at Prothonotary's Office. Serve Notice of Filing on the Owner. Start Suit to Enforce Lien Within Two Years. File a Lien Bond to Remove the Lien.
Obtain the lien release form: You can typically find lien release forms online on state government websites or through legal document providers. Make sure you have the correct form for your specific situation.
Steps to File a Valid Pennsylvania Mechanics Lien Send Preliminary Notice Within 30 Days. Send Pre-Lien Notice at Least 30 Days Before Filing. File Your Lien Claim at Prothonotary's Office. Serve Notice of Filing on the Owner. Start Suit to Enforce Lien Within Two Years. File a Lien Bond to Remove the Lien.
In Pennsylvania, lien rights extend to general contractors, subcontractors and sub-subcontractors (contractors and suppliers who have a direct contract with subcontractors). A notice of intent to lien to an owner is due 30 days before the Lien Claim is filed for subcontractors and sub-subcontractors.
Creditors typically acquire property liens through your voluntary consent. On the other hand, creditors get judgment liens after winning a lawsuit against you for a debt you owe.
Steps to File a Valid Pennsylvania Mechanics Lien Send Preliminary Notice Within 30 Days. Send Pre-Lien Notice at Least 30 Days Before Filing. File Your Lien Claim at Prothonotary's Office. Serve Notice of Filing on the Owner. Start Suit to Enforce Lien Within Two Years. File a Lien Bond to Remove the Lien.