Lien in Texas
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Texas enforces mechanic's liens with a 4-year statute of limitations and requires strict compliance with notice and filing requirements.
How Texas treats Lien
Texas Property Code § 53.001 et seq. governs mechanic's and materialman's liens, requiring notice to the property owner within 15 days of first furnishing labor or materials. The lien must be filed within 4 years of the date work was completed. Texas recognizes judgment liens, tax liens, and consensual liens on both real and personal property. Lienholders must provide proper notice and follow statutory foreclosure procedures, including notice of sale.
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 Texas.