Kentucky Mechanic's Lien Guide

A party who has not contracted directly with the owner (or the owner's authorized agent) must send a written notice to the owner of the intention to hold the property liable and the amount claimed, or no lien is acquired (KRS 376.010(4)-(5)). Timing of that owner notice: - Within 75 days after last furnishing on claims of $1,000 or less. - Within 120 days after last furnishing on claims over $1,000. - On an owner-occupied single- or double-family dwelling (and certain agricultural/personal-use property of the same owner), the notice must be sent within 75 days after last furnishing, regardless of amount. Proof that the notice was mailed to the owner's last known address (or authorized agent) is sufficient. Note: the lien does not apply to amounts the owner-occupant already paid the contractor before receiving the notice. Best practice is to send this notice as early as possible.

Under KRS 376.080, the lien is dissolved unless a statement of the amount due is filed with the county clerk of the county where the building or improvement is located within 6 months after last furnishing labor or materials. Within 7 days of filing, the claimant must also mail a copy of the statement to the property owner at their last known address; the lien is dissolved if that copy is not sent. An action to enforce the lien must be brought within 12 months from the day the statement is filed with the clerk, or the lien is dissolved (KRS 376.090).