A construction lien, or mechanic’s lien, is used to make a legal claim against a property when a homeowner has not paid a contractor, or when a general contractor has not paid a subcontractor or supplier. Construction liens are claims made against real property by contractors, subcontractors, builders, or other professionals. They are designed to protect a financial interest in construction work performed at a property, or for materials provided to facilitate that construction work.

Placing a lien against a property provides contractors and subcontractors with a means to recover the money they are owed. However, a construction lien can also have significant ramifications to a homeowner’s interest in their property, which they will likely want to contest. In either circumstance, Georgia law places strict procedural requirements and limited timeframes to perfect or contest a lien.