Lien in District of Columbia
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
DC allows liens on real and personal property; mechanic's liens require notice within 90 days of last work.
How District of Columbia treats Lien
The District of Columbia recognizes consensual liens (mortgages, security interests) and statutory liens (mechanic's, tax, judgment liens) under common law and DC Code provisions. Mechanic's liens must be filed within 90 days after the last date work was performed or materials supplied; failure to file within this window bars the lien. DC also enforces judgment liens automatically when a judgment is docketed in Superior Court, creating a lien on the judgment debtor's real property in the district. Lien priority generally follows the order of filing or creation, though certain liens (tax, child support) receive statutory priority.
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 District of Columbia.