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Virginia Mechanics Lien Guide and FAQs

Last updated March 27, 2024
If contractors and suppliers don’t get paid on a construction project in Virginia, they can file a mechanics lien to secure payment. A mechanics lien is a legal tool that provides the unpaid party with a security interest in the property. This page breaks down the rules, requirements, and deadlines you need to follow to file a Virginia mechanics lien.

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Virginia lien law deadlines for:

Preliminary notice deadlines
30 days

On residential projects, when Mechanic Lien Agent identified in building permit, 30 day preliminary notice required.

Send Your Notice
Mechanic liens deadlines
90 days

Lien must be filed within 90 days from last day of the month which labor or materials furnished, & within 90 days from time the work is completed.

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Enforcement deadlines
6 months

In Virginia, an action to enforce a mechanics lien must be initiated within the later of 6 months from date lien recorded or 60 days from the completion or termination of the project. This deadline may not be extended, and failure to meet the deadline results in the lien being rendered unenforceable.

Preliminary notice deadlines
30 days

On residential projects, when Mechanic Lien Agent identified in building permit, 30 day preliminary notice required. On other projects to make owner or general personally liable - not later than 30 days after completion of entire work.

Send Your Notice
Mechanic liens deadlines
90 days

Lien must be filed within 90 days from last day of the month which labor or materials furnished, & within 90 days from time the work is completed.

File A Lien Fast
Enforcement deadlines
6 months

In Virginia, an action to enforce a mechanics lien must be initiated within the later of 6 months from date lien recorded or 60 days from the completion or termination of the project. This deadline may not be extended, and failure to meet the deadline results in the lien being rendered unenforceable.

Preliminary notice deadlines
30 days

On residential projects, when Mechanic Lien Agent identified in building permit, 30 day preliminary notice required. On other projects to make owner or general personally liable - not later than 30 days after completion of entire work.

Send Your Notice
Mechanic liens deadlines
90 days

Lien must be filed within 90 days from last day of the month which labor or materials furnished, & within 90 days from time the work is completed.

File A Lien Fast
Enforcement deadlines
6 months

In Virginia, an action to enforce a mechanics lien must be initiated within the later of 6 months from date lien recorded or 60 days from the completion or termination of the project. This deadline may not be extended, and failure to meet the deadline results in the lien being rendered unenforceable.