Lien in South Carolina
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
South Carolina enforces liens through recording and requires lienholders to follow strict statutory procedures for mechanic's and judgment liens.
How South Carolina treats Lien
South Carolina recognizes mechanic's liens, judgment liens, and other statutory liens that secure payment for labor, materials, or court judgments. Mechanic's liens must be filed within 90 days of the last work or materials supplied, or the lien is lost. Judgment liens attach to real property when the judgment is recorded in the county register of deeds office. South Carolina courts enforce liens based on priority rules determined by recording date, and lienholders must comply with statutory notice and foreclosure procedures to enforce their claims.
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 South Carolina.