California mechanics lien requirements

1. You must have lien rights

For most subcontractors and suppliers, that means serving a valid preliminary notice within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials (Cal. Civ. Code § 8200). Skip the preliminary notice and there’s usually no lien to record.

2. The claim must contain the required contents

Under Cal. Civ. Code § 8416, the Claim of Mechanics Lien must include:

• The amount of the claim (the sum you’re owed)
• The name of the owner or reputed owner
• A general statement of the work or materials you provided
• The name of the person who hired you
• A description of the property to be liened
• A proof of service affidavit showing service on the owner

3. It must be verified — but not notarized

The claim must be verified, meaning signed under penalty of perjury. California does not require a notary — the verified signature satisfies § 8416(a).

4. The amount can’t be inflated

Your lien can’t exceed the reasonable value of what you furnished minus payments received. Willfully overstating the amount can render the whole lien unenforceable, so claim only what you’re truly owed.

5. Serve the owner, then record on time

Serve the owner with notice of the lien — the proof of service affidavit in the claim covers this, so service comes before recording (Cal. Civ. Code § 8416(c)) — then record the claim at the county recorder within your lien deadline (90 days from completion, or 30/60 days after a Notice of Completion). Both steps are required for a valid, enforceable lien.

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.