The San Diego construction industry has been hit hard by the current recession and the fragile California economy.   According to the National Association of Home Builders, the construction industry lost 7,000 jobs statewide from July to August.  While the statistics paint a picture of the staggering losses that have been sustained by the industry as a whole, there are also a shocking number of industry workers who have not been paid for work performed.  Whether because an owner abandoned a project, or a developer defaulted, even the most reputable and seasoned contractors can find themselves in a position where they must take legal steps to get paid for work performed. 

What is a Mechanic’s Lien?

A mechanic’s lien is a hold against a property that is recorded at the County Recorder’s Office by a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier who has not been paid for work performed.  Ultimately, it can result in a foreclosure action and even prevent the refinancing or sale of a property until the lien is satisfied.  Consequently, the complicated procedures, filing deadlines, and statutory notice requirements of a mechanic’s lien must be followed without mistakes for a lien to be effective.  (more…)