I started work on project in January 2021 on repairs to a property in Georgia being turned into a short term rental property. The property had changed hands from the former owner (now general contractor for the current owner who lives in California). The former owner is now living in the house overseeing the renovation. He says that it is still his property even though he is not the owner of record. I have been paid for aprox. half of the materials for the renovation and no payment for my labor. I now have to deal with a property manager who is tasked with reviewing my invoices, but never seem to have the time to do so.
My apologies in advance for the overly-technical answer. There is no "intent to lien" provision under Georgia lien law. There is a "preliminary notice of lien" provision. A preliminary notice is sent to the contractor or the owner. I have never recorded a preliminary notice of lien as I believe it is a waste of time and effort. It does not give you any additional rights under lien law. Also, it is generally good practice to send any lien-related filing to everyone (i.e., general contractor, owner(s), etc.). There is no harm in sending it to someone who is not technically required to receive a copy and you don't have to worry as much about whether you are sending it to the proper party.