What Is a Mechanic’s & Materialman’s Lien — And Why It Matters

In the construction and improvement industry, delays in payment can be all too common. Whether it’s a subcontractor waiting on a general contractor, or a supplier left unpaid for materials delivered, the financial risk is real.

That’s where the mechanic’s and materialman’s lien — often referred to as a mechanic’s lien — comes into play.

What Is a Mechanic’s Lien?

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim against a property that ensures those who provide labor, materials, or services are compensated. The lien attaches to the property itself and creates a “cloud” on the title, making it difficult for the owner to sell or refinance until the lien is resolved.

Who Can File?

Depending on the state, those eligible to file typically include:

  • General contractors

  • Subcontractors

  • Laborers

  • Equipment lessors

  • Material suppliers (a.k.a. materialmen)

  • Architects or engineers (in some jurisdictions)

In Oklahoma, several parties are legally able to claim lien rights (provided they satisfy certain requirements). Those groups include: 

Original / General Contractors

  • Contractors who contract directly with the property owner to furnish labor, materials, or services for construction, alteration, or repair.

    • They may file a lien statement within four months after their last day of work or material delivery.

Subcontractors / Material Suppliers / Laborers

  • Parties who supply labor, materials, or equipment under a subcontract or supply agreement (i.e., not directly contracted with the owner). 

    • These claimants typically must file their lien within 90 days from the last date they furnished labor or materials.

    • Many are also required to send a pre-lien notice (sometimes called “notice to owner”) within 75 days of last furnishing labor or materials, depending on the project type (especially for owner-occupied dwellings).

Architects, Engineers, Design Professionals (in limited circumstances)

  • Oklahoma accepts lien claims from architects or engineers, provided their work directly contributes to an improvement on the property (i.e., plans that are used in actual construction).

    • If their services do not result in tangible improvements (e.g., speculative plans never executed), then the lien right may not attach.

Equipment Lessors (with limitations)

  • Entities leasing equipment used in a construction project may also have lien rights, but Oklahoma imposes certain restrictions—e.g., no lien rights on certain “homestead-exempt” properties or agricultural projects unless statute allows.

These liens are crucial for protecting payment rights when a project goes sideways — whether due to contract disputes, delays, or non-payment.

Why It’s Important

Without legal action, unpaid work can quickly become a financial loss. The mechanic’s lien provides leverage — and can even lead to a judicial foreclosure sale in extreme cases.

At Lamun Mock Cunnyngham & Davis, our litigators have deep experience filing and defending mechanic’s lien claims across Oklahoma. Our recent double victory in lien-related trials is a testament to our ability to fight for our clients and win when it counts.

Read more about our proven track record here and contact us if you wish to explore your legal options today.

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