Mechanic's Lien Guide
Georgia Mechanic's Lien Guide
Lien deadlines, notice requirements, and filing procedures for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in Georgia.
Georgia Lien Deadlines
Preliminary Notice
30 daysSubcontractors must send a Notice to Contractor within 30 days of starting work OR within 30 days of the filing date of the Notice of Commencement, whichever comes later.
Intent to Lien
Not requiredA Preliminary Notice of Lien Rights functions effectively as a formal "intent to lien," offering substantial benefits even though it is not a mandatory prerequisite for preserving lien rights in Georgia. When recorded with the County Clerk, this notice transforms into a public and searchable warning of a potential lien claim. This public record informs lenders, title companies, and other interested parties that you intend to file a lien if payment is not received. Furthermore, a recorded Preliminary Notice of Lien Rights provides an additional layer of protection, particularly if disputes arise regarding the proper preparation and service of a Notice to Contractor. Many contractors strategically choose to send both the Notice to Contractor and record a Preliminary Notice of Lien Rights to ensure comprehensive lien protection.
Mechanic's lien
90 daysMust be filed within 90 days of last furnishing labor or materials. Enforcement must be initiated within 1 year of lien filing. Within 30 days of initiating enforcement, the claimant must file a "commencement of lien action notice" with the superior court clerk in the same county the lien was filed. Mechanic's liens cannot be extended in Georgia.
Calculate your Georgia Mechanics Lien Deadline
Your project
DISCLAIMER: These deadlines are pulled from recent lien laws, but you should consult a lien expert or lawyer to understand the deadlines specific to your situation.
Georgia deadlines
Showing deadlines for a Subcontractor. Deadlines can vary by role.
Enter your project dates on the left to calculate exact deadline dates.
Preliminary Notice
30 days from first furnishing (Notice to Contractor, when a Notice of Commencement is filed and not in contract with prime)
Enter project dates to calculate
Mechanics Lien Filing
90 days from last furnishing
Enter project dates to calculate
Enforcement (foreclosure)
365 days from date lien was filed (recorded)
Calculated once you record the lien
Georgia Lien Guide
Preliminary Notice & Notice of Intent
Preliminary Notice: Subcontractors and suppliers must send a Notice to Contractor within 30 days if a Notice of Commencement was recorded by the owner, owner's agent, or prime contractor. Notice of Intent to Lien: Not required, but recommended in Georgia.
Who Can File a Mechanic's Lien
General contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers are entitled to mechanic's lien rights in Georgia. Suppliers to suppliers are not covered. An individual who is required to be licensed as a contractor but does not have a valid license also is not covered.
Who Gets the Notice
Notice is given to the general contractor and project owner.
Information Required
Information needed to file a mechanic's lien in Georgia includes: - Project owner’s name - Property description - Amount owed - Labor/materials description - Work dates - Claimant’s info
Georgia Public Works
In Georgia, a mechanic's lien on public works projects is not available. The contractor furnishing the payment bond or security deposit (which is typically the general contractor or prime contractor) shall post and file the Notice of Commencement. Public bond claims are available for subcontractors and suppliers. Bonds are required for public projects exceeding $100,000. Individuals who have a direct contract with a bonded contractor are not required to give notice. However, individuals without a direct contract must give written notice within 90 days of furnishing labor or materials. Suit must be filed after 90 days from last furnishing labor or materials, but no later than 1 year after contract completion.
Georgia Lien Statutes
Official Resources
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