Lien in Florida
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Florida requires a Notice of Nonpayment within 15 days of nonpayment and lien filing within 90 days of last work.
How Florida treats Lien
Florida contractors must provide a Notice of Nonpayment to the property owner within 15 days of nonpayment, or lose lien rights. The mechanic's lien itself must be filed within 90 days of the last date work or materials were provided. Florida law requires preliminary notice to the owner before work begins on residential properties in many cases. Liens are enforced through foreclosure action and attach to the property with priority based on filing date.
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 Florida.