Pennsylvania Lien Laws

In the state of Pennsylvania, pre-existing lien laws are embedded in state codes and statutes in order to ensure the smooth process of compensating builders and materials suppliers involved in construction projects. Individuals wishing to secure their right to make claim on lien on and other lien enforcement actions must adhere to these specific procedures and deadlines to ensure their rights to compensation.

Primary Contractors in Pennsylvania

Primary contractors in the state of Pennsylvania are not required by law to give preliminary notice of intent to lien. Any claim on lien is required by law to be filed no later than six (6) months after the last of work on project, which should include an affidavit of service being filed no more than twenty (20) days after service. A notice of lien claim should be provided to owner of project no more than one (1) month after filing of original claim on lien. Any action being enforcing lien claims, including actions to foreclose, must begin within two (2) years of original lien claim filing date.

Sub Contractors in Pennsylvania

Sub contractors in the state of Pennsylvania are required by law to offer notice of intent to claim on lien to owners of project no less than thirty (30) days before actually filing claim on lien. Otherwise, sub contractors in the state of Pennsylvania adhere to the same schedule of filings and notice as the primary contractors in Pennsylvania, including:

  • Lien claim made within six (6) months of last date on project
  • Affidavit of service noted and filed within twenty (20) days of last service
  • Owner served notice of claim on lien no later than one (1) month of issuing lien claim
  • Actions to foreclose or enforce lien must commence no later than two (2) years after original filing of lien claim date

Materials Suppliers in Pennsylvania

Materials suppliers in the state of Pennsylvania are required by law to provide the same notice of intent to claim on lien within thirty (30) days of actual filing as sub contractors. Otherwise, materials suppliers follow the exact same procedures as prime and sub contractors in Pennsylvania, which are all noted above.

Talk to a Lawyer

Need a lawyer? Start here.

How it Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you
Get Professional Help

Talk to a Real Estate attorney.

How It Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you