What action can an Owner take to reduce the window in which liens may be filed?

Filing a Notice of Completion with the County Recorder is a strategic action that the owner can take to reduce the time frame in which mechanics' liens may be filed against the property. Typically, once construction is completed, the contractor and subcontractors have a limited period (often referred to as the lien period) during which they can file a lien if they have not been paid. By filing a Notice of Completion, the owner effectively initiates the start of this limited timeframe. This notice informs all parties involved that the project has reached completion, thereby shortening the window during which parties can make claims against the property.

This method is particularly effective in jurisdictions that recognize the Notice of Completion as a triggering event for the lien period, thereby protecting the owner's interests by reducing potential liabilities related to unpaid work or materials provided.