Menu
Home>Levelset Community>Legal Help>Can I file a mechanics' lien as a general contractor in Ohio?

Can I file a mechanics' lien as a general contractor in Ohio?

OhioMechanics Lien
Anonymous Contractor

We are a general contractor in Ohio. We generally complete projects through a mix of using subcontractors and self-performing work. We recently completed a project for a public entity (a township) that did not file a notice of commencement. They are refusing to pay. Can we file a mechanics' lien?

1 reply

Attorney at Fortney Law
| 74 reviews
Jul 27, 2021

Unfortunately you cannot file a mechanic's lien. Mechanic's liens in general cannot be filed against public property. Instead, on public projects, liens on public funds (also known as affidavits of attested account) can be filed against the pool of project money. However, liens on public funds are only available to subcontractors, not general contractors. 

You are likely limited to filing a lawsuit against the public entity in whatever manner is prescribed by the contract. 

Answers to questions are for educational and general information purposes only, and are not meant as legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed
through communication on a public forum such as this website.See More...
See More...
0 people found this helpful
Helpful