Mechanic’s Lien
Mechanic’s Lien Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
When a construction project runs into payment issues, the legal rights of both contractors and property owners can quickly become complicated. For contractors, a mechanic’s lien may be the only way to secure unpaid compensation. For homeowners, an unexpected lien can put a mortgage, refinance, or sale at risk - even if the work is disputed or already paid.
At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we represent both sides in Ohio mechanic’s lien matters. Whether you are a contractor seeking payment or a homeowner responding to a lien you did not expect, we help you understand the law, take immediate action, and protect your financial interests.
What Is the Mechanic’s Lien?
A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim filed by a contractor, subcontractor, supplier, or laborer who has not been paid for work or materials provided to improve a property. In Ohio, this lien attaches to the property title and may block a sale or refinancing until resolved.
To be valid, the lienholder must follow specific legal steps and deadlines, which include:
- Serving a Notice of Furnishing (in many cases for subcontractors or suppliers)
- Recording an Affidavit for Mechanic’s Lien with the county recorder within the legal timeframe
- Serving a copy of the lien to the property owner
- Filing a lawsuit to enforce the lien within six years if the debt is not paid
Failure to follow these steps may invalidate the lien entirely. For homeowners, understanding these rules can help challenge improper or excessive claims. For contractors, proper documentation is key to protecting payment rights.
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What We Can Do for You
We assist both homeowners and contractors with the preparation, defense, and resolution of mechanic’s liens in Ohio. From filing or contesting a lien to resolving payment issues through negotiation or court, we provide the guidance, strategy, and support you need to protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
Prepare and File Mechanic’s Liens for Contractors
We draft and record your Mechanic’s Lien Affidavit with complete job details, legal formatting, and accurate service. This filing secures your right to payment and complies fully with Ohio's construction lien laws.
Help Homeowners Respond to Liens
We review and challenge liens filed against your home. Whether they’re overstated, filed late, or not served properly, we help you dispute invalid claims and protect your equity from unnecessary or fraudulent encumbrances.
Review and Serve Notices of Furnishing
For subcontractors and suppliers, we determine if a Notice of Furnishing is needed and ensure it’s served on time. Timely service preserves your right to file a Mechanic’s Lien and strengthens your legal claim for unpaid work.
Serve and Enforce Liens in Court
We serve liens properly and pursue enforcement by filing foreclosure actions if payment isn’t made. For property owners, we defend against improper filings and help resolve disputes through court motions or negotiated settlements.
Negotiate Payment and Settlement Agreements
We represent contractors and homeowners in lien payment talks. Whether resolving overdue invoices or clearing title, we negotiate fair solutions that avoid litigation and allow your construction project or sale to move forward.
When to Call a Mechanic’s Lien Attorney
If you are a contractor seeking payment or a property owner facing a lien notice, immediate action is essential. Strict deadlines apply, and delays can cost you money or legal ground. Whether you need to file a valid lien or challenge one already placed, knowing your rights early helps protect your interests.
Our attorneys are ready to review your situation, clarify your options, and take swift, informed steps to secure your financial position from the start.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a mechanic’s lien in Ohio?
General contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers who provide labor or materials for property improvement can file, as long as they follow the notice and timing requirements.
What is a Notice of Furnishing?
This is a document many subcontractors and suppliers must send early in the project to preserve their right to file a lien later. We help determine whether it is needed and how to serve it correctly.
How long do I have to file a lien in Ohio?
Typically, contractors have 60 days for residential projects and 75 days for commercial ones, starting from the last day work or materials were provided. We calculate and track your deadline to keep you compliant.
Can a homeowner dispute a lien that is already filed?
Yes. If the lien is invalid or inflated, we help homeowners file a motion to discharge the lien or negotiate its removal.
What if I missed the lien deadline, do I lose all rights?
We prepare corrected documents for contractors or review contracts for homeowners to clarify obligations and ensure your legal position is strong.
