Letter template
Notice of Intent to Lien Template
Updated 2026-10-24
A notice of intent to lien is a written warning that a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier plans to file a mechanics lien against a property if it is not paid by a stated date. It identifies the project, the unpaid amount, and the parties. Some states require this notice before a lien can be filed, and deadlines and required content vary by state, so check your state's statute before sending.
When to use this template
- When you supplied labor, materials, or equipment to a construction project and have not been paid.
- When your state requires a notice of intent before you can record a mechanics lien.
- When your state does not require one, but you want to give the owner and general contractor a final chance to pay before you file.
- When the lien filing deadline is approaching and you need to act while your lien rights still exist.
- When the general contractor says it has not been paid by the owner, and you want the owner to know directly that your balance is unpaid.
The template
How to customize it
- Look up your state's mechanics lien statute first. It controls whether this notice is required, how many days before filing it must be sent, who must receive it, and how it must be delivered.
- Many states require specific statutory wording, sometimes in bold or a certain font size. Paste that exact text into the placeholder rather than paraphrasing it.
- Use the property's legal description or parcel number from the county records, not just the street address.
- Send it to everyone the statute names, which may include the owner, general contractor, lender, and the party that hired you.
- Calendar your actual lien filing deadline separately. Sending this notice usually does not extend the time you have to file the lien itself.
- For high-value projects or unclear deadlines, have a construction attorney review the notice before it goes out.
Mistakes to avoid
- Do not overstate the amount. In many states, a lien claim that knowingly includes amounts not owed can be invalid and may expose you to penalties.
- Do not say a lien 'has been filed' when you are only giving notice of intent.
- Avoid making the notice look like a court document or government form. It is a notice from your company.
- Do not miss the statutory deadlines. Lien rights are strict, and a late notice or late filing can lose the right entirely.
- Do not use a generic template from another state without checking it. Required content and timing differ widely.
Frequently asked questions
Is a notice of intent to lien required in every state?
No. Some states require it before filing a mechanics lien, others do not, and the rules can depend on whether the project is residential or commercial and your role on the job. Check your state's statute.
How long before filing a lien must I send the notice?
It varies by state. Some require a set number of days between the notice and the lien filing. The overall lien filing deadline is also set by state law and is usually counted from your last day of work or materials.
Can I use a notice of intent to lien on a public project?
Usually not. Public property generally cannot be liened. Unpaid parties on public projects typically make a claim against the payment bond instead, under separate federal or state rules. Bond claims have their own notice requirements and deadlines, so check the rules for the specific project as early as possible.
What information should a notice of intent to lien include?
At a minimum: your company, the owner and other parties, the property address and legal description, what you furnished and when, the unpaid amount, the payment deadline, and any statutory language your state requires. Your state's statute may list additional required items.