How to file a mechanics lien in Illinois
Unpaid for work or materials on an Illinois construction project? Preserving priority against third parties is a distinct issue. Use this guide to organize the filing questions, then check the cited law against your role and project.
IL · PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS
Preserving priority against third parties is a distinct issue.
Section 7 of the Mechanics Lien Act uses a four-month filing-or-suit rule for preserving a contractor’s claim against other creditors, encumbrancers, and purchasers. Do not treat that as the only deadline in the Act.
Notices to check before filing
Subcontractor notices, residential work, and enforcement have their own provisions. Identify whether you contracted with the owner before using a contractor’s checklist.
Where and how to file in Illinois
Review the county recording procedure and the verified claim requirements in §7, together with the provisions applicable to your role.
A filing mistake to avoid
An owner’s continuing payment obligation does not mean lien priority against everyone else is preserved indefinitely.
Prepare your project records
Retain the owner contract or subcontract, completion evidence, title information, balance, and notices to the owner.
- 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 Illinois lien requirements
Illinois Mechanics Lien Act, 770 ILCS 60 (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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