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What is my deadline for filing a lien in Washington state?

WashingtonLien Deadlines

I am a material supplier supplying to a subcontractor on a commercial project. We delivered 100 days ago. Am I still within deadline to file a lien?

2 replies

Sep 27, 2019
In Washington, a mechanics lien must be filed within 90 days of the claimant's last delivery of labor or materials to the project. Also, suppliers to projects in Washington must send a preliminary notice within 60 days of first furnishing labor or material (the deadline is shortened to 10 days after first furnishing on new residential construction). When lien rights are not available to secure the amounts due it doesn't necessarily mean all hope for recovery is lost, however. When suppliers are not paid pursuant to the terms of their contracts, a breach of contract action could be initiated - and depending on the amount at issue, small claims court may be an option to limit the time and expense required. If a lawsuit is the chosen path, a Washington construction attorney will likely be needed to assist. Often, though, making an effort to open clear lines of communication can result in getting paid. Talking things out with both the contracting party and the GC (or even property owner) can shine a light on the payment issue so people can work together to combat it. In many cases, the payment is not being withheld for any antagonistic reason and the slow-down is merely a product of the complexities of construction payment.
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Sep 27, 2019
A quick way to figure out your Washington mechanics lien deadline is to use Levelset's "Payment Rights Advisor" tool.  Just answer a few questions and it will calculate your lien deadline.  Takes about 30-60 seconds.  Give it a shot here: Calculate your Washington lien deadline free
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