Question 1

What is a mechanics lien in Connecticut?

Accepted Answer

A mechanics lien in Connecticut is a claim an unpaid contractor, subcontractor, or supplier records against the property they improved. Recorded with the town clerk, it attaches to the real estate and clouds the title, so the owner cannot easily sell or refinance, and it can be foreclosed by court order. Connecticut's lien law is in General Statutes Title 49, Chapter 847.

Question 2

Who can file a mechanics lien in Connecticut?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who furnished services or materials to construct, raise, remove, or repair a building and was not paid can claim a lien, including general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. Subcontractors and materialmen who did not deal directly with the owner must give the owner and original contractor a written notice of intent to preserve the right.

Question 3

What is the deadline to record a mechanics lien in Connecticut?

Accepted Answer

You must lodge the certificate of lien with the town clerk within 90 days after you cease to perform services or furnish materials, under section 49-34. The same 90-day window applies to the general contractor and to subcontractors. You must also serve a copy of the certificate on the owner within 30 days after lodging it.

Question 4

Do I need to send a preliminary notice in Connecticut?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your role. The original contractor needs no advance notice. A subcontractor or materialman, however, must give the owner and the original contractor a written notice of intent not later than 90 days after ceasing to furnish materials or services, under section 49-35. Without that notice, a subcontractor's lien is not valid.

Question 5

How long do I have to enforce a Connecticut mechanics lien?

Accepted Answer

You have one year from the date the lien is recorded to enforce it. Under section 49-39 the lien does not continue in force beyond one year unless you commence an action to foreclose it and record a notice of lis pendens within that year. Let the year pass without suing and the lien becomes unenforceable.

Question 6

What happens if I miss a Connecticut lien deadline?

Accepted Answer

Missing the 90-day recording window, the subcontractor's 90-day notice, the 30-day service on the owner, or the one-year deadline to foreclose usually means losing the lien, because Connecticut applies these rules strictly. You may still sue the party who hired you for the unpaid amount, but you lose the security a lien places on the property.

Question 7

Why do so many Connecticut lien deadlines run 90 days?

Accepted Answer

Connecticut is unusual in running the subcontractor's notice of intent and the recording deadline off the same 90-day clock, both measured from when you cease work rather than from project completion. On top of that, section 49-34 requires serving the recorded certificate on the owner within 30 days. Track both dates carefully so neither slips.

Question 8

How do I release a Connecticut mechanics lien?

Accepted Answer

Once the debt is paid, the claimant should record a release with the town clerk so the title is clear. A lien also lapses if no foreclosure action is commenced within one year of recording. An owner who believes a lien is invalid can apply to the court to have it discharged and the title cleared.

Connecticut Mechanics Lien

Introduction

Key Things to Know

Key decisions before you file

Customize your Mechanics Lien Template with DocDraft

Connecticut Requirements for Mechanics Lien

Connecticut Filing Deadline and Office

Frequently Asked Questions