How many days do you have to file a mechanics lien in Alabama?
File a written statement sworn by the claimant (or someone who knows the facts) with the probate judge of the county where the property is, giving the amount owed, a description of the property and the owner's name. The deadline is 6 months after the last work or material for an original contractor, 4 months for other claimants, and 30 days for journeymen and day laborers. The lien is lost if the statement is not filed.1 Ala. Code 35-11-213 and 35-11-215
Do you need a preliminary notice in Alabama?
Everyone except the original contractor must give the owner written notice, before filing the lien statement, that they claim a lien, stating the amount, what it is for and who owes it. A material supplier who notifies the owner in writing before delivery of the materials and prices can claim a lien for the full price unless the owner objects in writing before the materials are used.2 Ala. Code 35-11-218 and 35-11-210
How long is a mechanics lien good for in Alabama?
A lawsuit to enforce the lien must be started within 6 months after the whole debt secured by the lien becomes due. It is filed in the circuit court of the county where the property is (or district court for small amounts).3 Ala. Code 35-11-221 and 35-11-220
Who can file a mechanics lien in Alabama?
Mechanics, contractors, subcontractors, laborers and suppliers who do work or furnish materials for a building or improvement under a contract with the owner or the owner's agent, contractor or subcontractor have a lien on the building and land. Employees of a contractor and suppliers to a contractor can only reach the unpaid balance the owner still owes the contractor.4 Ala. Code 35-11-210
Does an Alabama lien claim have to be notarized?
The lien statement must be verified by oath of the person claiming the lien or someone with knowledge of the facts, which in practice means signing before a notary.5 Ala. Code 35-11-213
Public jobs: read the Alabama lien statute.
Sources
- Ala. Code 35-11-213 and 35-11-215 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, 2026-10-27)
- Ala. Code 35-11-218 and 35-11-210 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, 2026-10-27)
- Ala. Code 35-11-221 and 35-11-220 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, 2026-10-27)
- Ala. Code 35-11-210 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, 2026-10-27)
- Ala. Code 35-11-213 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, 2026-10-27)