Ohio Mechanic's Lien Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.01 et seq. — Mechanic's Liens
Lien Filing Deadline
You must file your lien within 75 days of the completion of the original contract or last day of performing labor/furnishing materials. Miss this deadline and you permanently lose your lien right.
Preliminary Notice Requirement
Ohio requires a Notice of Furnishing (Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.05) to be served on the property owner (Notice of Furnishing within 21 days of first furnishing) within 21 days of starting work. Failure to provide this notice may void your lien right.
Key Facts
- Filing location: county recorder's office in the county where the property is located
- Enforcement deadline: 6 years after filing to commence foreclosure
- Contractor license: Not required for lien rights
- Bond alternative: Property owner may bond off the lien
- Small claims limit: $6,000
- Residential note: residential property requires Notice of Furnishing from subcontractors
What Your Ohio Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Ohio's actual mechanic's lien statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.01 et seq. cited by section number. The other party sees you know the law.
Deadline Calculation
75 days from your last work date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Notice Compliance
References your compliance with Ohio's preliminary notice requirements.
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Ohio Mechanic's Lien FAQ
How long do I have to file a mechanic's lien in Ohio?
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.01 et seq., you have 75 days from the completion of the original contract or last day of performing labor/furnishing materials to file a mechanic's lien. Missing this deadline permanently forfeits your lien right.
Does Ohio require a preliminary notice before filing a lien?
Yes. Ohio requires a Notice of Furnishing (Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.05) to be served on the property owner (Notice of Furnishing within 21 days of first furnishing) within 21 days. Failure to provide this notice may void your lien right.
Where do I file a mechanic's lien in Ohio?
In Ohio, mechanic's liens are filed with the county recorder's office in the county where the property is located. The lien must be filed within the statutory deadline of 75 days.
How long do I have to enforce a mechanic's lien in Ohio?
After filing the lien, you have 6 years to commence a foreclosure action to enforce the lien under Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.01 et seq.. If you don't file suit within that window, the lien expires.
Can a property owner remove a mechanic's lien in Ohio?
Yes. In Ohio, a property owner can post a surety bond to "bond off" the mechanic's lien from the property. The lien then attaches to the bond instead of the property, allowing the owner to sell or refinance.
Do I need a lawyer to send a lien demand letter in Ohio?
No. A demand letter is a formal written notice, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Ohio-specific demand letter citing Ohio Rev. Code § 1311.01 et seq. so the other party knows you understand your rights and the applicable deadlines.
Mechanic's Lien Demand Letters by State
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