We bought the home March 2019, it is now January 2020 and we just received an intent to file a lien against the property for exterior siding put on prior to us purchasing the home, can i be held responsible for this?
1 reply
Jan 9, 2020
Generaly, a new owner could potentially be held responsible for improvements made but not paid for by the previous owner via mechanics lien. However, that's only true if the lien claim is properly and timely made. And, to be sure, the deadline for filing an Indiana mechanics lien claim is 60 days from the last date when labor or materials were furnished to the project.
So, if a lien claimant hasn't done any work on a residence for far longer than 60 days, then that claimant will generally be unable to file a valid and enforceable mechanics lien. Reminding the claimant of the applicable deadlines and informing them that their claim will be fought tooth and nail may be an effective way to help fend off a potential claim. Plus, contact the seller of the home and demanding they resolve the dispute could be an option too.
Finally, I think this will be helpful to you: I Just Received a Notice of Intent to Lien – What Should I Do Now?