I live in utah did a project for a friend and now they wont pay. I never did a pre lien. Project is complete. Can I still send a notice of intent to lien?
1 reply
Jul 21, 2020
Under Utah mechanics lien law, all claimants are required to file a preliminary notice within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials to the project. This notice may be sent late, but will only cover the value of labor or materials provided in the 5 days prior to recording the notice, and all thereafter. Failing to comply with the notice requirements is fatal to your lien rights.
Since a Notice of Intent to Lien is not a formally required document in Utah, there isn't technically any harm in sending one. But since Utah uses a searchable State Construction Notice Registry or if the owner is aware of Utah lien rights, this may be a fruitless attempt.
Another option would be to send a payment demand letter stating the amount due, and if not paid you can threaten legal action such as a lawsuit for breach of contract,unjust enrichment, or Utah Prompt Payment Act violation. Furthermore, if the amount in dispute is under $11K you can file an action in Utah Small Claims Court.
For more information see: Construction Demand Letters: How to Write One That Gets You Paid