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How long does it take to perfect a lien?

CaliforniaChange Orders

I'm a subcontractor on a project and was directed to proceed with a change order but have not received payment. The GC I work for is going to file a lien but I'm at the point where I need to perfect my lien. It's imperative that I do as they are holding the monies for the change order as well as retention. About $175,000 total.

2 replies

Nov 9, 2021

There's a lot to unpack here. It sounds like you already did the change order work. What rights you have to get paid are going to be quite fact-specific and will depend on things like: 

1. Did you file a prelien? 

2. Have you filed a lien and when? 

3. Is the project still going? 

4. What does your contract with the GC say? 

I would recommend at least talking to a construction attorney to get some left and rights on what your options are.

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Nov 9, 2021
Assuming you have recorded your lien, then pefecting involves filing your lawsuit and that means retaining a lawyer. You have 90 days from when you recorded your lien to file your lawsuit so assuming you have time, interview some lawyers that are experts in construction and specifically mechanic liens and pick the one you feel most comfortable with. Selection of the right lawyer for the case and for you is a huge part of the battle.
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