Can a contractor put a lien on my house if someone that was living here signed a contract but was never the owner of the house?
1 reply
Jun 2, 2020
Mechanics liens are generally limited to the ownership interest of the party who authorized the work. For example, when the work was authorized by a tenant, that tenant's interest is generally lienable - but the fee ownership of the property may not be.
However, that generally goes beyond the simple question of "Whose signature is on the contract?" If the party authorizing the work was acting as an agent of the owner, if they have some interest or title to the property, or if the owner knew about, approved, or even authorized or participated in the project - it's possible their property could be subject to lien.
If you're facing a mechanics lien claim on your property, it'd be wise to consult with a local Ohio construction attorney. They'll be able to review the claim for payment and advise on what rights might be available to the claimant. Further, these resources should be useful: (1) I Just Received a Notice of Intent to Lien – What Should I Do Now?; and (2) A Mechanics Lien Was Filed on My Property – What Do I Do Now?