Texas Mechanic’s Lien Deadline Chart for Construction Contractors

The State of Texas likes to set itself apart when it comes to calculating mechanic’s lien deadlines. Most states calculate dates from a specific date and based on a specific number of days. In Texas, the lien period is described as “on the 15th day of the month three months after the last month the claimant performs work”. (Three months for residential, four for non-residential) The deadline to file a lien is not extended if the 15th falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. Accordingly, if the deadline falls on one of these days, you still have to file the lien affidavit on the preceding business day or else it is going to be late. Also, a mechanics lien affidavit must be filed on or before the 15th of the month. An affidavit that is sitting on a clerk’s desk unfiled or is still “in the mail” is not considered a “filed” affidavit under the statute.

Remember that the mechanics lien affidavit must be filed with the county clerk’s office in the county where the property is located, not in some other county, such as in the county where the principal office of the recipient lies or in a county of residence, if different from the actual location of the property.

And don’t forget you’re notices, which is a whole separate chart. Remember that original contractors do not have lien notice requirements in Texas.

Work Last Residential Liens Non-Residential State Liens

Performed In Deadline Liens Deadline Deadline

January April 15th May 15th April 15th

February May 15th June 15th May 15th

March June 15th July 15th June 15th

April July 15th August 15th July 15th

May August 15th September 15th August 15th

June September 15th October 15th September 15th

July October 15th November 15th October 15th

August November 15th December 15th November 15th

September December 15th January 15th December 15th

October January 15th February 15th January 15th

November February 15th March 15th February 15th

December March 15th April 15th March 15th

Need to learn more? Get in touch.

Previous
Previous

Examinations Under Oath in Texas: An Opportunity to Minimize Loss

Next
Next

The Keys to Attorney Drafted Painting Services Contracts in Texas