Michigan Lien Law

Supplier – Preliminary notice requirements to file mechanic lien
20 days: Notice of furnishing to owner and prime within 20 days from first providing labor or materials. Laborer has 30 days after wages were due, and not paid, to serve notice.

Supplier – Mechanic Lien
90 days: Lien must be filed within 90 days from last providing materials or labor.

Subcontractor – Preliminary notice requirements to file mechanic lien
20 days: Notice of furnishing to owner and prime within 20 days from first providing labor or materials. Laborer has 30 days after wages were due, and not paid, to serve notice.

Subcontractor – Mechanic Lien
90 days: Lien must be filed within 90 days from last providing materials or labor.

General Contractor – Preliminary notice requirements to file mechanic lien
No preliminary notice is required. Upon request must provide list of subs and suppliers.

General Contractor – Mechanic Lien
90 days: Lien must be filed within 90 days from last providing materials or labor.

Timeframe to foreclose lien
Action to enforce must be commenced within 1 year from filing of lien.

Construction participants not covered by lien law
Unlicensed residential home builders are prohibited under Michigan law from bringing or maintaining an action in court to enforce a contract. This prohibition includes actions to foreclose construction liens.

Cost and damages not allowed in lien claim
Attorney fees, which may be awarded to a prevailing party, are not generally included in the original lien amount.