How to file a mechanics lien in New York
Unpaid for work or materials on a New York construction project? Single-family dwellings have a shorter filing period. Use this guide to organize the filing questions, then check the cited law against your role and project.
NY · PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS
Single-family dwellings have a shorter filing period.
Lien Law §10 generally allows eight months after the statutory completion or final-furnishing event, but a qualifying single-family dwelling has a four-month period. The section includes a subdivision-development exception and a separate retainage provision.
Notices to check before filing
Owner service is a separate task governed by the Lien Law. Plan it alongside filing rather than assuming the county clerk handles it.
Where and how to file in New York
File the notice with the county clerk where the property is situated, reviewing the rule for property in multiple counties.
A filing mistake to avoid
“Residential” and “single-family dwelling” are not interchangeable descriptions for this deadline.
Prepare your project records
Confirm the dwelling and project type, completion or final-furnishing event, retainage due date if relevant, and property counties.
- 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 New York lien requirements
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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