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Construction Law: Mechanic's Lien in Maryland – The Basics
Everyone should know the basics regarding mechanic’s lien in Maryland, including timing of bringing forth a claim, notice to parties, and other considerations. The following list consists of some of the basic considerations that any party to a potential mechanic’s lien should consider:
- Timing – In Maryland, a contractor or subcontractor must bring a mechanic’s lien claim within 180 days from the last day they performed work or supplied materials on the project.
- Notice – Subcontractors must provide a notice of intent to lien a property within 120 days from the last day they performed work or supplied materials on the project.
- Lienable Properties – In Maryland, mechanic’s liens can be placed on non-public new construction or renovations that increased the value of the property by 15%. A contractor cannot bring a claim against public property.
- Waiver of Mechanic’s Lien Provisions – Maryland, unlike Virginia and Washington D.C., does not permit the waiver of a mechanic’s lien provision in a contract. As a result, if the contract states that a contractor has waived its right to bring a mechanic’s lien claim in Maryland, it may be unenforceable.
- Protecting against Mechanic’s Lien – obtaining lien releases for work performed and materials furnished will protect owners and contractors from mechanic’s liens.
- Information necessary in a Petition for Mechanic’s Lien includes:
- Name and address of the petitioner
- Name and address of the owner
- The nature or kind of work performed or materials furnished
- A description of the land and building
- Evidence of notice to owner, if the Petitioner is a subcontractor
- Affidavit by the Petitioner confirming the facts and amounts at issue
- Copies or originals of all material papers
Obviously, these are the basics considerations to review when dealing with a mechanic’s lien in Maryland. All cases are different and will require specific analysis dependent on the facts and other potential issues.
For additional information, contact Michael W. Siri at siri@bowie-jensen.com.