How to file a lien

A construction lien is an effective way to secure payment for the labor and/or materials you put into a person’s property. In almost all cases, it is less expensive and time consuming than suing for breach of contract. When you file a lien, you have the right to require the County Sheriff to sell the property you put work into and collect the amount owing from the sale proceeds.

Because of this right to sell and collect, most lending institutions or other prospective purchasers will avoid any property that has a lien filed against it. Who would want to invest in a piece of property if someone else has the right to sell and take some of the money first? Thus, when you file a lien, you are in a much better position to secure payment from the unwilling owner because he or she will have a difficult time selling the property with a lien clouding the title.

The filing of a lien does not guarantee payment, but it does prevent the owner from conveying the property without paying the lien or posting a bond. If you have not filed a lien (or do not meet the requirements to file a lien) but you do have a contract with the owner for the work you performed, then you can always proceed to court.

Generally, a lien is a single piece of paper filed with the county recording office. However, Washington has some rules regarding who can file a lien and what the lien must contain.

A construction lien is an effective way to secure payment for the labor and/or materials you put into a person’s property. In almost all cases, it is less expensive and time consuming than suing for breach of contract. When you file a lien, you have the right to require the County Sheriff to sell the property you put work into and collect the amount owing from the sale proceeds.

A construction lien is an effective way to secure payment for the labor and/or materials you put into a person’s property. In almost all cases, it is less expensive and time consuming than suing for breach of contract. When you file a lien, you have the right to require the County Sheriff to sell the property you put work into and collect the amount owing from the sale proceeds.