How to collect payment from a general contractor

You did the work, you sent the invoice, and the general contractor won’t pay. In California, subcontractors have real leverage — because your claim ultimately reaches the owner’s property, not just the GC. Here’s how to escalate, step by step.

Step 1: Send a clear written demand

Put it in writing: the invoice number, the amount, the work, and a firm date to pay. Reference your lien rights. A documented demand starts your paper trail and sometimes resolves the issue on its own.

Step 2: Know the prompt-payment clock

On private works, a GC generally must pay a subcontractor within 7 days of receiving the related payment from the owner (Bus. & Prof. Code § 7108.5). Wrongful, non-disputed delay can carry a 2% per month penalty plus attorney’s fees — a point worth raising in your demand.

Step 3: Send a notice of intent to lien

A notice of intent to lien warns the owner, GC, and lender that you’ll record a mechanics lien unless paid by a set date. This is usually the step that gets you paid, because a lien on the owner’s property creates pressure the GC can’t ignore.

Step 4: Record a mechanics lien

If the demand is ignored, record a mechanics lien before your deadline (90 days from completion, or 30/60 days after a Notice of Completion). This requires that you served a preliminary notice at the start of the job — which is why that early step matters so much.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. California lien and notice deadlines are strict and fact-specific — “completion” alone can be triggered by actual completion, the owner’s occupancy or use, or a 60-day cessation of labor. Notice Harbor is not a law firm. Confirm any deadline that matters to your claim with a licensed California construction attorney.