Lien in Washington
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Washington requires mechanic's lien claims filed within 90 days of last work, with strict notice requirements to property owners.
How Washington treats Lien
Washington RCW 60.04 establishes mechanic's lien rights for contractors and suppliers. A lien claimant must serve notice on the property owner within 90 days of the last date work was performed or materials were supplied. Failure to provide proper notice can extinguish lien rights. Washington also recognizes judgment liens, tax liens, and materialman's liens under similar timeframes.
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 Washington.