Understanding Construction Liens and Foreclosure in Jacksonville, Florida
Understanding Construction Liens and Foreclosure in Jacksonville, Florida
By The Law Offices of James D. Allen, P.A. | Florida Construction Law Attorney
If you're a contractor, subcontractor, or materials supplier in Florida, protecting your right to payment is critical to your business. One of the most effective legal tools available is the construction lien. At The Law Offices of James D. Allen, P.A., we help clients throughout Florida understand, file, and enforce construction liens—including the foreclosure of those liens when necessary.
What Is a Construction Lien in Florida?
A construction lien (formerly called a "mechanic's lien") gives contractors, laborers, and suppliers the right to claim a legal interest in a property when they haven’t been paid for work or materials provided. In Florida, construction liens are governed by Chapter 713 of the Florida Statutes.
To protect your lien rights, strict deadlines and notice requirements must be followed:
- Notice to Owner (NTO) must be served within 45 days of first furnishing labor or materials.
- A Claim of Lien must be recorded within 90 days of the last day work or materials were provided.
- The lien must be enforced (foreclosed) within 1 year of recording, or within 20 days if the property owner files a Notice of Contest of Lien.
When to Foreclose a Construction Lien
If payment is still not received after recording a lien, you may need to initiate foreclosure proceedings. This legal action seeks a court order to force the sale of the property in order to satisfy the debt.
Foreclosure of a lien is a complex process that involves filing a lawsuit, serving all necessary parties, and proving the validity of your lien. Time is of the essence, and errors in paperwork or procedure can jeopardize your claim.
How We Can Help
At The Law Offices of James D. Allen, P.A., we:
- Draft and serve Notices to Owner
- Prepare and record Claims of Lien
- Represent clients in lien foreclosure litigation
- Defend property owners against improper or exaggerated liens
We understand the high stakes involved in construction disputes and work swiftly to protect your financial interests.
Get Legal Help Today
Whether you're filing your first lien or facing a contested foreclosure, we provide clear guidance and aggressive representation at every stage. Don’t risk losing your right to payment—contact our firm today.
📍 Based in Florida and proudly serving contractors, developers, and property owners statewide.
Call us today for a free consultation 904-516-5452
