Mechanic's Lien

Our Atlanta construction lien attorneys help property owners, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers across Georgia resolve mechanic’s lien disputes. We protect your rights, clear titles, and secure payment with skilled legal guidance.

Construction projects in Georgia often involve multiple contracts, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. When everyone gets paid on time, the process runs smoothly. But when payments are missed, a mechanic’s lien (also called a construction lien) can be filed against the property. For property owners, this creates a cloud on the title that can block a sale or refinancing. For contractors and suppliers, it can be a crucial tool for securing payment.

At Thrift McLemore, our Atlanta construction lien attorneys represent both property owners and construction professionals across Georgia. We work to protect your rights, resolve disputes, and ensure the lien process is handled correctly.

Why Might a Mechanic’s Lien Be Filed in Georgia?

Whether it is new home construction, a major renovation, or a smaller improvement project, construction often involves layers of parties. A general contractor may oversee the job, subcontractors may perform specialized work, and suppliers may provide materials. If payments are not made in full at any stage, the unpaid party may have the right to file a mechanic’s lien.

Common reasons liens are filed include:

• Homeowners fail to pay the agreed-upon balance under the contract

• Contractors withhold payment from subcontractors or suppliers

• Disputes over the quality of work or materials delay final payments

What is a Mechanic’s Lien?

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim filed against real property for unpaid labor, services, or materials. Once filed, the lien attaches to the property’s title.

This means:

• The property owner no longer has a clear title

• The lien must be satisfied before the property can be sold or refinanced

• If unpaid, the lienholder may enforce the lien through foreclosure or collect from the sale proceeds

Mechanic’s liens are powerful tools to secure payment, but can cause major complications for property owners.

Who Can File a Mechanic’s Lien in Georgia?

Under Georgia law, several parties involved in construction or improvements may qualify to file a lien, including:

• General contractors

• Subcontractors

• Material suppliers

• Surveyors

• Architects

• Landscapers

If you provided labor, services, or materials and did not get paid, you may have the right to file a lien.

How Property Owners Can Defend Against or Prevent a Mechanic’s Lien in Georgia

For property owners, a mechanic’s lien can delay closings, complicate financing, and create unnecessary disputes. Fortunately, there are defenses available.

You may be able to prevent or remove a lien if you can show that:

• Procedural requirements for filing were not met

• The work or service was not completed as agreed

• The materials provided were defective or substandard

Working with an experienced Atlanta construction lien attorney gives you the best chance to protect your property rights.

Thrift McLemore’s Georgia Mechanic’s Lien Attorneys

At Thrift McLemore, we represent both lien claimants and property owners. Our attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of Georgia construction law and have practical experience in resolving disputes quickly and effectively. We:

• Help contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers file valid liens to secure payment

• Defend property owners against improper or exaggerated liens

• Negotiate settlements to avoid prolonged disputes and litigation

• Guide clients through lien enforcement or lien removal when necessary

By getting us involved early, you can protect your financial interests and resolve lien issues before they escalate.