Resources
Preliminary notices and mechanics lien records for contractors
Payment disputes are easier to review when the job file shows who supplied work, when it began and what has been paid. Use this guide to organize records for construction counsel, not to decide lien rights yourself.
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General information, not legal or tax advice.
Identify the parties and the project context
CSLB’s homeowner guidance describes a mechanics lien as a recorded claim against property by an unpaid contractor, subcontractor, laborer or supplier. Its audience matters: ask a construction attorney how the rules apply to your project before relying on a residential summary for other work.
Sources: CSLB - What is a Mechanics Lien?
Preserve the preliminary-notice timeline
CSLB says subcontractors and suppliers need a preliminary notice to preserve possible lien rights, while laborers and direct contractors do not need that notice. Its summary permits delivery before work or supplies begin and up to 20 days afterward, with limited reach for late notice. Keep start dates and delivery evidence for counsel.
Track completion documents alongside unpaid invoices
CSLB describes recording deadlines affected by completion and a recorded Notice of Completion. Its summary reduces a direct contractor’s period from 90 to 60 days and a subcontractor or supplier’s from 90 to 30 days after that notice. Send completion documents to counsel promptly rather than estimating a deadline from an invoice date.
Sources: CSLB - What if a Mechanics Lien is Filed on Your Property?; CSLB - How to Prevent a Mechanics Lien
Match releases to actual payment status
CSLB recommends conditional releases before payment and unconditional releases afterward. As a bookkeeping control, connect release requests with invoices, payment confirmations and amounts still disputed. Have counsel approve legal forms and any enforcement action; Tidwell’s role is organizing job costs and collection evidence.
Sources: identify the parties and the project context
Bring job billing and payments together
Tidwell helps reconcile the books and organize supporting schedules for your business decisions. We work with your CPA on tax questions and the financial records they need.