If someone files a Mechanics Lien in Idaho, but does NOT file a lawsuit within the required 6 month time period and the lien becomes invalid for time -- Can that person REFILE A NEW LIEN OR LAWSUIT COVERING THE SAME AMOUNT FOR THE SAME TIME PERIOD THAT JUST EXPIRED? IN OTHER WORDS, CAN THE PRIOR EXPIRED LIEN BE EXTENDED BY WAY OF FILING A NEW LIEN OR LAWSUIT AS THE ONE THAT EXPIRED?????
Idaho law is very specific regarding the duration and the conditions under which a lien can be extended.
If during the six (6) months after filing the lien, the property owner makes a partial payment or if you extend credit to the property owner with a specific expiration date and the payment or credit and expiration date is endorsed on the record of the lien, the lien can be extended for an additional six (6) months after the date of the payment or the expiration date of your credit extension. Click on the link below to read the statute.
Idaho Statute 45-510 Duration of Lien
However, Idaho law does NOT prevent you from filing a civil suit against the property owner in an attempt to recover the amount owed. If the property ownerwould agree, a much less expensive alternative would be to submit the matter to binding mediation or arbitration. Click on the link below for information on Mediation Arbitration
Idaho stature 45-507 requires that the lien be filed within ninety (90) days after you last worked on or provided material for the project. If you don't file your lien within that ninety (90) days, you forfeit your right to lien.
I am assuming you are registered as a contractor with the Idaho Contractors Board. If not you are denied and have conclusively waived any right to file a lien (54-5208).