Mechanic's Lien Guide
Illinois Mechanic's Lien Guide
Lien deadlines, notice requirements, and filing procedures for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in Illinois.
Illinois Lien Deadlines
Preliminary Notice
Not required for most projectsNot required for most projects. However, notice must be given within 60 days of starting work by subcontractors working on an owner-occupied single-family residential project without a direct contract with the owner.
Mechanic's lien
4 monthsMust be filed within 4 months of last work. Enforcement must be initiated within 2 years of last work. Mechanic's liens cannot be extended in Illinois.
Calculate your Illinois 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.
Illinois 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
Generally not required; on single-family owner-occupied residence, 60 days from starting work
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Notice of Intent to Lien
90 days from last furnishing
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Mechanics Lien Filing
4 months after completion of work
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Enforcement (foreclosure)
2 years after completion of work
Calculated once you record the lien
Unpaid-balance state: your lien may be limited to the amount the owner still owes the general contractor when notice is received.
Illinois Lien Guide
Preliminary Notice & Notice of Intent
Preliminary Notice: A 60-day notice for subcontractors and suppliers working on an owner-occupied single-family residential project without a direct contract with the owner. Notice of Intent to Lien: Parties without a direct contract with the project owner must provide a Notice of Intent to Lien within 90 days of last furnishing labor or materials to the project in order to have mechanic's lien rights.
Who Can File a Mechanic's Lien
Contractors, subcontractors, laborers, and suppliers are entitled to mechanic's lien rights in Illinois.
Who Gets the Notice
Notice is given to the project owner and general contractor.
Information Required
Information needed to file a mechanic's lien in Illinois includes: - Project owner’s name - Property description - Labor/materials description - Amount owed - Work dates - Claimant’s info
Illinois Public Works
In Illinois, a mechanic's lien on public works projects is not available. Subcontractors and suppliers can file suit on a payment bond and also have the option of a lien on unexpended project funds. A written notice of bond claim is required within 180 days of last work. A suit cannot be filed more than 1 year after last work.
Illinois Lien Statutes
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