lien can not be more than contracted but if no contract how does amount get determined
1 reply
Jul 13, 2020
Oral contracts are binding, too - so, if there was a price agreed upon verbally, then a mechanics lien claim probably shouldn't exceed that price. What's more, Maine's mechanics lien statute actually states that lien rights will be available when the work was done "by virtue of a contract with or by consent of the owner," at § 3251. Meaning, if the owner has consented to the improvement, then a lien claim could be filed even if there's no contract. Generally, if there's no contract or price, then the value of the work that was done may be lienable.
For more discussion on Maine lien law, here's a helpful guide: Maine Mechanics Lien Guide and FAQs. If it looks like your property may soon be liened, or if there's already been a lien filed against your property, then these articles may help: (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?