California guide

Mechanic's lien deadlines in California: the 2026 guide for subcontractors

If you furnish labor or materials on a California project and you don't get paid, a mechanic's lien is how you force the issue. But the right to file expires fast. Here are the deadlines that matter, in plain language.

1. Serve Preliminary (20-day) Notice

   Most subcontractors and suppliers must serve a Preliminary Notice on the owner, direct contractor, and lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Serving late limits your claim to amounts furnished in the 20 days before notice and afterward.

   Cal. Civ. Code §§ 8200, 8204

2. Record Mechanics Lien

   Record the mechanics lien within 90 days after the work of improvement is completed, unless the owner records a Notice of Completion or Cessation, which shortens this to 30 days for subcontractors (60 days for the direct contractor). The date shown uses your last furnishing date.

   Cal. Civ. Code §§ 8412, 8414

3. File Action to Foreclose

   File a lawsuit to foreclose the mechanics lien within 90 days after the lien is recorded, or the lien expires.

   Cal. Civ. Code § 8460

This guide is general information based on public Californiastatutes, not legal advice, and your exact deadlines depend on your facts. Always confirm with a licensed California attorney before relying on a date.