How to file a mechanics lien in South Carolina
Unpaid for work or materials on a South Carolina construction project? Service and filing are both required within the period. Use this guide to organize the filing questions, then check the cited law against your role and project.
SC · PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS
Service and filing are both required within the period.
Section 29-5-90 generally requires serving and filing the lien statement within 90 days after ceasing the covered labor or materials.
Notices to check before filing
Serve the owner, or follow the statutory alternative if the owner cannot be found. A diligent-search exception has specific affidavit requirements.
Where and how to file in South Carolina
File the sworn account and property description with the register of deeds or clerk of court in the county containing the improvement.
A filing mistake to avoid
The statutory alternative for a missing owner is not permission to omit service without the required evidence.
Prepare your project records
Gather the net account, property description, owner details, required license information, and proof of service or diligent search.
- 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 South Carolina lien requirements
South Carolina Code, Title 29, Chapter 5
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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