how to file a mechanical lien

If contractors and suppliers don't get paid on a construction project in New Mexico, they can file a mechanics lien to secure payment. Some quick mechanics lien deadlines you should be aware of include: 

• No Preliminary notice deadlines
• A mechanics lien must be filed within 120 days from project completion
• An action to enforce a New Mexico mechanics lien must be initiated within 2 years from the lien's filing. The deadline may not be extended, and missing the deadline renders the lien unenforceable. 

If you have a license that is required by the Construction Industries Licensing Act, you must be licensed to claim a lien. An unlicensed contractor may not be able to file a suit to recover any money owed even without the protection of a lien. 

The step-by-step process of filing a lien can be found here.