Lien in Michigan
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Michigan enforces mechanic's liens with a 90-day notice requirement and strict filing deadlines for construction work.
How Michigan treats Lien
Michigan's mechanic's lien statute requires contractors and suppliers to file liens within 90 days of last providing labor or materials. The lienor must serve notice on the property owner and record the lien in the county register of deeds. Michigan also recognizes judgment liens, which attach automatically upon entry of a court judgment. Failure to comply with notice and filing deadlines results in loss of lien rights.
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 Michigan.