How to file a mechanics lien in Alabama
Unpaid for work or materials on an Alabama construction project? Your role determines the filing period. Use this guide to organize the filing questions, then check the cited law against your role and project.
AL · PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS
Your role determines the filing period.
Section 35-11-215 gives original contractors six months, journeymen and day laborers 30 days, and other qualifying claimants four months after the last covered work or materials.
Notices to check before filing
Check the notice and verified-statement provisions alongside your claimant category. A subcontractor should not use the original contractor’s six-month period.
Where and how to file in Alabama
The filing described in this section is the verified statement referenced in Section 35-11-213. Identify the proper filing office and statement requirements before submission.
A filing mistake to avoid
“Contractor” in everyday conversation does not necessarily mean “original contractor” under the statute.
Prepare your project records
Keep the agreement showing who hired you, a dated list of labor or deliveries, and payment credits.
- Identify who hired you and whether the property is privately owned.
- Confirm your notice obligations and the event that starts each time limit.
- Verify the owner and property description using appropriate records.
- Reconcile invoices, payments, credits, and disputed amounts.
- Keep filing and service receipts, and calendar any enforcement deadline.
After the claim is filed
Filing does not guarantee payment or establish that a disputed claim is valid. Preserve the filed document and delivery evidence. If payment arrives, arrange the required release or satisfaction. If the balance remains unpaid, seek advice about enforcement before its separate deadline expires.
Help with your unpaid construction account
The Credit App offers administrative mechanics lien preparation and a recording attempt for $249. Confirm your state, project, notices, and timing before ordering. The service uses the information you provide; it does not determine legal sufficiency, verify ownership, or represent you in an enforcement action.
Review the lien service · Compare service fees · Ask support about your project
Sources for Alabama lien requirements
Alabama Code §35-11-215 (2025 text, Justia)
Sources checked September 23, 2026. This is a general guide to private construction claims, not a calculation of your deadline or legal advice. The cited edition and later amendments must be checked for your project.
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