Lien in Rhode Island
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Rhode Island enforces liens through recording and strict notice requirements, with particular emphasis on mechanic's lien timelines.
How Rhode Island treats Lien
Rhode Island recognizes statutory liens, including mechanic's liens and tax liens, as well as consensual liens. Mechanic's liens must be filed within 90 days of the last labor or material supplied, or the lien is barred. All liens on real property must be recorded in the town land evidence records office to be enforceable against subsequent purchasers. Rhode Island courts enforce liens according to priority rules based on recording date, and lienholders must provide proper notice to debtors and other interested parties before pursuing foreclosure.
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 Rhode Island.