What is the first step in the process of imposing a Design Professionals Lien?

The first step in imposing a Design Professionals Lien is to determine if construction has already started. This is crucial because lien rights are often tied to whether physical work has commenced on the property. Timing can affect the validity and enforcement of a lien, and many jurisdictions have specific timelines that dictate when a lien can be filed based on when construction begins. Understanding the status of construction helps the design professional establish their rights and ensures they follow the appropriate legal procedures. Awareness of the construction timeline also informs the subsequent steps, such as sending demand letters or filing a lien, as these actions may depend on established deadlines following the start of work.