Wisconsin Mechanic’s Lien

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Below is an overview of the preliminary steps for filing a mechanic’s lien in the state of Wisconsin.

COMMERCIAL:

  • Upfront Notice:
    • Courtesy Notice:
      • BICA sends a Courtesy Notice within 60 days of first delivery due to the following:
        • If a proper payment bond is furnished on the project, “all liens …except those of any prime contractor do not exist”.
        • To maintain an action against the payment bond, the prime contractor must be notified you are supplying labor or materials within 60 days of first delivery.
  • Follow-up Notice (if not paid):
    • Notice of Intent to File Lien:
      • Required at least 30 days before filing the Claim for Lien (which must be filed within 6 months)
      • This notice is available on the BICA member portal.

RESIDENTIAL:

  • Upfront Notice:
    • Subcontractor Identification Notice:
      • Required within 60 days of first delivery
      • Two copies are required (which BICA will send)
    • If Payment Bond:
      • The same lien restrictions apply as for Commercial jobs if a payment bond is furnished.
      • Therefore, the Subcontractor Identification Notice will also be sent to the Prime Contractor to fulfill the bond 60-day requirement as well.
  • Follow-up Notice (if not paid):
    • Notice of Intent to File Lien:
      • Required at least 30 days before filing the Claim for Lien (which must be filed within 6 months)
      • This notice is available on the BICA member portal.

PUBLIC:

  • Upfront Notice:
    • Notice to Contractor:
      • Required within 60 days of first delivery
  • Follow-up Notice: There is no statutory follow-up notice.

Throughout our site you can find more resources on the process of filing a mechanic’s lien and preliminary notices. If you’re ready to get started, be sure to reach out to us on our contact page, or call us at (800) 722-2422.