A Washington mechanic’s lien is a way for construction contractors, laborers, and suppliers to obtain overdue payment for their work by filing a legal claim against the property they worked on. Almost all individuals/entities working on a construction project have lien rights, with the exception of construction managers and suppliers to suppliers. Once a lien has been filed by the claimant, it will be in the public records and any lenders or interested buyers will know that the owner has outstanding liabilities.

The process for recording a lien starts with a preliminary notice being delivered to the owner within (60) days from the first date of work or supplies delivery. This applies to everyone but prime contractors; however, some prime contractors may have to deliver a disclosure to the owner before commencing work (see § 18.27.114). After work is completed, a claim of lien must be filed within ninety (90) days of the last day work was performed or supplies delivered; a notice of the claim must be served on the owner within fourteen (14) days of filing. If compensation is still not received, the claimant may enforce the lien anytime within eight (8) months of the lien being filed.