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Washington Mechanics Lien Guide and FAQs

Last updated May 26, 2023
If contractors and suppliers don’t get paid on a construction project in Washington, they can file a mechanics lien to secure payment. A mechanics lien is a legal tool that provides the unpaid party with a security interest in the property. This page breaks down the rules, requirements, and deadlines you need to follow to file a Washington mechanics lien.

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Washington lien deadlines for:

Preliminary notice deadlines
Before work

Under some circumstances, Notice to Owner required before commencing work. Model Disclosure Statement due before work begins on all residential projects, and commercial projects under $60,000.

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Mechanics lien deadlines
90 days

Washington Mechanics Lien must be filed w/in 90 days from last delivering labor or materials.

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Enforcement deadlines
8 months

In Washington, an action to enforce a mechanics lien be initiated within 8 months from the lien’s filing.

This deadline may not be extended, and if this 8-month period passes without an action being filed to enforce the lien, the lien expires.

Preliminary notice deadlines
60 days

Notice of Right to Claim Lien within 60 days from first delivering labor or materials. Who must receive the notice depends on the role of the party that hired the party giving notice.

Send Your Notice
Mechanics lien deadlines
90 days

Washington Mechanics Lien must be filed w/in 90 days from last delivering labor or materials.

File A Lien Fast
Enforcement deadlines
8 months

In Washington, an action to enforce a mechanics lien be initiated within 8 months from the lien’s filing.

This deadline may not be extended, and if this 8-month period passes without an action being filed to enforce the lien, the lien expires.

Preliminary notice deadlines
60 days

Notice of Right to Claim Lien within 60 days from first delivering labor or materials. Who must receive the notice depends on the role of the party that hired the party giving notice.

Send Your Notice
Mechanics lien deadlines
90 days

Washington Mechanics Lien must be filed w/in 90 days from last delivering labor or materials.

File A Lien Fast
Enforcement deadlines
8 months

In Washington, an action to enforce a mechanics lien be initiated within 8 months from the lien’s filing.

This deadline may not be extended, and if this 8-month period passes without an action being filed to enforce the lien, the lien expires.