Home>Levelset Community>Legal Help>Lien laws

Lien laws

I am a painter for which a license is NOT required in the State of Michigan. I have worked on multiple properties for a developer painting theses homes. I am now owed over $20k, and the owner refuses to pay me. I am presently living in one of his homes, and the owner now wants to evict me, in order to sell the home.....Can I legally file a lien against the homes I have performed painting tasks on?

1 reply

Aug 5, 2020

Painters are typically entitled to mechanics lien rights. So, if you've done a job and haven't been paid for that job, then a mechanics lien claim may well be on the table. Note that, in Michigan, the deadline for filing a lien is 90 days after last furnishing labor or materials to the project. So, if you're considering a lien filing, it'd be wise to keep an eye on that deadline. You can learn all about Michigan mechanics lien rights, here: (1) Michigan Mechanics Lien Guide and FAQs; and (2) How to File A Michigan Mechanics Lien – Step By Step Guide To Get You Paid.

Filing lien claims against development projects

Property ownership will be important for determining whether one claim would be sufficient or if multiple liens will be required. If the work spans multiple properties, one lien might be able to span the entire project as long as the properties have the same owner. Though, if a developer has already sold the properties being worked on, then separate mechanics lien claims may be necessary.

Recovery options before filing a mechanics lien

Finally, keep in mind that some other recovery tools can be useful for forcing payment before having to resort to a mechanics lien filing. Sending the mere threat of a mechanics lien will often be useful: What is A Notice of Intent to Lien And Should I Send One? Or, before that even becomes necessary, sending payment reminders can push the customer to pay your outstanding invoices: How Invoice Reminders Help Contractors Get Paid Faster.

0 people found this helpful

Helpful