The Rhode Island Mechanics Lien Citation is a legal document used by contractors, subcontractors, laborers, and suppliers to secure payment for their work on a construction project. This document is filed with the Rhode Island Secretary of State and serves as a warning to potential buyers that the property has a lien on it. The lien gives the contractor, subcontractor, laborer, or supplier a legal claim on the property until the amount owed is paid in full. There are two types of Rhode Island Mechanics Lien Citations: Pre-Lien Notices and Claim of Lien. Pre-Lien Notices are filed prior to the completion of the project and provide a warning to the potential buyer that the property may have a lien on it. The Claim of Lien is filed after the completion of the project and serves as a formal demand for payment of the amount owed.