Mechanic's Lien Guide
Wisconsin Mechanic's Lien Guide
Lien deadlines, notice requirements, and filing procedures for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Lien Deadlines
Preliminary Notice
60 daysService required within 60 days of first furnishing.
Intent to Lien
Within 5 months from last furnishing and 30 days before lien filedNotice of Intent to File a Lien Claim required to be served on the owner at least 30 days before the lien claim is filed with the clerk of the circuit court. Since the final lien claim must be filed within six months, this notice should be served no later than five months after the last date of furnishing labor or materials.
Mechanic's lien
6 monthsMust be filed within 6 months of last work. Enforcement must be initiated within 2 years of lien filing date. Mechanic's liens cannot be extended in Wisconsin.
Calculate your Wisconsin 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.
Wisconsin 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
60 days from first furnishing
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Notice of Intent to Lien
30 days before filing the lien
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Mechanics Lien Filing
6 months from last furnishing
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Enforcement (foreclosure)
2 years from the date the lien was filed
Calculated once you record the lien
Wisconsin Lien Guide
Preliminary Notice & Notice of Intent
Preliminary Notice: Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers are required to give preliminary notice in Wisconsin. Notice of Intent to Lien: Required 30 days before lien filing in Wisconsin.
Who Can File a Mechanic's Lien
Contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, architects, and engineers are entitled to mechanic's lien rights in Wisconsin.
Who Gets the Notice
Notice is given to the project owner.
Information Required
Information needed to file a mechanic's lien in Wisconsin, includes: - Project owner's name - Description of the property - Amount owed - Claimant's information
Wisconsin Public Works
In Wisconsin, both a lien on unpaid funds and a suit on a payment bond are available. Rules differ for Milwaukee (see Milwaukee City Charter). First-tier and second-tier (except for highway improvement contracts) subcontractors and suppliers can file suit on a payment bond. Written notice (preliminary notice) must be given within 60 days of first work. First-tier subcontractors and suppliers can also file a lien on unpaid funds. Written notice (preliminary notice) must be given within 60 days of first work. Suit must be filed within 1 year of project completion.
Wisconsin Lien Statutes
Official Resources
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