Mechanic's Lien Guide
Montana Mechanic's Lien Guide
Lien deadlines, notice requirements, and filing procedures for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in Montana.
Montana Lien Deadlines
Preliminary Notice
20 days or 45 days"Notice of Right to Claim a Lien" must be given within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. If lender-funded project, you have 45 days to send notice. If residential (1-4 unit dwellings), the notice must be served on the owner within 20 days from first furnishing and then must be recorded at the county within 5 days after it is sent to the owner. It is good for 1 year, and extensions can be recorded. When the job is complete, a release must be recorded at the county clerk.
Mechanic's lien
90 daysMust be filed within 90 days of last work or 90 days after notice of completion has been recorded. Enforcement must be initiated within 2 years of lien filing. Mechanic's liens cannot be extended in Montana.
Calculate your Montana Mechanics Lien Deadline
Your project
DISCLAIMER: These deadlines are pulled from recent lien laws, but you should consult a lien expert or lawyer to understand the deadlines specific to your situation.
Montana deadlines
Showing deadlines for a Subcontractor. Deadlines can vary by role.
Enter your project dates on the left to calculate exact deadline dates.
Preliminary Notice
Notice of Lien Rights served on owner within 20 days of first furnishing (and filed with recorder within 5 days of delivery to owner)
Enter project dates to calculate
Mechanics Lien Filing
90 days from last furnishing
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Enforcement (foreclosure)
2 years from date of lien filing
Calculated once you record the lien
Montana Lien Guide
Preliminary Notice & Notice of Intent
Preliminary Notice: A Notice of Right to Claim a Lien is required for subcontractors and suppliers in Montana. It must be recorded, and a release must be recorded. Notice of Intent to Lien: Not required in Montana.
Who Can File a Mechanic's Lien
Contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, architects, and engineers are entitled to mechanic's lien rights in Montana.
Who Gets the Notice
Notice is given to the project owner.
Information Required
Information needed to file a mechanic's lien in Montana includes: - Project owner's name - Description of the property - Amount owed - Description of the work or materials - Claimant's information
Montana Public Works
In Montana, a mechanic's lien on public works projects is not available. Subcontractors and suppliers are eligible to file claims. Claims are either on a payment bond or a deposit of securities (varies based on the type of public project). Notice must be filed within 90 days of project completion and acceptance. The deadline to file suit depends on the bond terms as there are no statutory provisions.
Montana Lien Statutes
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