I finished a remodel 2-3 weeks ago and are having trouble getting final payment. Client is slow to reason now saying she is not completely satisfied with one phase of the job yet not allowing me any time to review? What do I do?
You generally have 90 days from substantial completion of the project to record a mechanic’s lien. This time can be shortened if a Notice of Completion is recorded but those are found mostly on public jobs. Sometimes a strong letter from an attorney demanding payment and threatening the owner with a lien if they don’t pay can push the owner into paying you without you having to record the lien. However, if the owner is complaining about some of your work, it’s best if you’ve addressed these issues first in writing. I’m happy to answer any questions you have about this.
Cathleen M. Curl, Esq.
Law Office of Cathleen M. Curl
700 El Camino Real, Suite 200
Millbrae, CA 94030
T 650-871-5955