We have filed this lean with the original owner who did not pay us for our work. Do we need to take any actions as to enforce this lean?
After filing a mechanics lien claim, there are a few different steps claimants can take to maximize recovery odds. Considering Illinois has a generous lien enforcement deadline (2 years after finishing work), it's typically a good idea for Illinois claimants to try and force payment before deciding to enforce liens. While enforcing a lien is one option, typically, claimants prefer to negotiate payment before things come to that. And, if the other side isn't being reasonable, threatening to enforce the claim with a Notice of Intent to Foreclose can help show them you're willing to do whatever it takes to get paid - and that can be useful for forcing them to come to the negotiating table.
For more discussion about potential steps after filing a mechanics lien: The 4 Steps to Take After Filing a Mechanics Lien.