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⚖️ Mechanics Liens — Protect Your Property

One of the most misunderstood risks in home improvement: even if you pay your general contractor in full, your property can still be liened if the GC fails to pay their subcontractors or material suppliers.

How it works: Subcontractors and suppliers have 90 days from their last day of work to file a lien against your property. You could end up paying twice — once to the GC, and again to the unpaid sub who puts a lien on your house.

Three ways to protect yourself:

Get lien waivers — When you make final payment, require a signed lien waiver from the GC (and ideally from major subs).
Hire licensed contractors — Unlicensed contractors forfeit their right to file a mechanics lien.
Make checks payable to the GC only — Pay the GC and get lien waivers in return.

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