How to file a mechanics lien in Virginia
Unpaid for work or materials on a Virginia construction project? Use the month-end rule and the project-completion limit together. Use this guide to organize the filing questions, then check the cited law against your role and project.
VA · PRIVATE CONSTRUCTION CLAIMS
Use the month-end rule and the project-completion limit together.
Section 43-4 generally requires the memorandum within 90 days from the last day of the month of last furnishing, and no later than 90 days after project completion or termination.
Notices to check before filing
Review mechanic’s-lien-agent and claimant-specific notice rules. The memorandum must include the statutory parties, amount, due-time information, property description, and verification.
Where and how to file in Virginia
File in the clerk’s office for the county or city containing the improvement or part of it.
A filing mistake to avoid
A month-end calculation does not override the separate completion-or-termination limit.
Prepare your project records
Gather last furnishing dates, overall completion or termination evidence, owner information, property details, and notice history.
- 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 Virginia 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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