Lien in Arkansas

State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate

Quick summary

Arkansas permits mechanic's liens with a 120-day filing deadline and requires notice to the property owner before work begins.

How Arkansas treats Lien

Contractors and suppliers must file a mechanic's lien within 120 days of the last date they furnished labor or materials. Arkansas law requires the lien claimant to give written notice to the owner before beginning work or within a short period after commencing to preserve lien rights. The lien attaches to the real property and can be foreclosed like a mortgage if the debt is not paid. Arkansas courts enforce strict compliance with notice and filing requirements, and failure to comply may bar or reduce the lien claim.

The general definition of Lien

A legal claim against property to secure payment of a debt or obligation.

A lien gives someone the right to hold or sell another person's property if a debt isn't paid. For instance, a mechanic who fixes your car might place a lien on it, meaning you can't sell or transfer the car until you pay the repair bill. The person holding the lien doesn't own the property, but they have a legal interest in it that must be satisfied before the owner can freely sell it.

Read the full Lien entry →

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.