Do liens really work on homeowners?

**James** · #1 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 07:43 AM

I guess the question pretty much sums it up. I did a very large project awhile back and filed a lien, within the correct amount of time, but it just hasn't done anything.

I know that they can't sell it or refinance their home until it's paid, but what if they never do either?

Digdug · #2 (**permalink**) 11-10-2006, 02:11 PM

James - If they never do either a mechanics lien will not help you , as far as i know. I believe in some states you have to update it also every few years. I have had liens put on properties in the past and its kinda nice getting a call from a title company saying they have a check for you. Its like getting a christmas present.

demobud · #3 (**permalink**) 11-11-2006, 07:46 PM

I've had to do this too James. It becomes a waiting game, but generally when the property cahnges hands you will get something (provided there are not so many other liens that the amount gets whittled down). Do check on how often you have to update it though. The last time I had to do this it was in Georgia and it was about 6 years ago so I'm not up to speed.

**James** · #4 (**permalink**) 11-13-2006, 08:10 AM

Yea, that is pretty much what I figured. It’s just a shame that it can’t be a faster fix.

Taken it to court usually is not the answer, because even if you win the judgment, you still aren’t guaranteed to get paid. So not only are you out the money form the work, you now out the attorney’s fees and court cost.