Understanding Mechanic’s Liens In Ohio: What DIY Homeowners Need To Know

Home renovation is now more popular than ever, especially as homeowners look to improve property value or customize their space without the cost of hiring a general contractor. But even when you take on a project yourself, you might still be exposed to legal risk many homeowners don’t expect: a mechanic’s lien.

Mechanic’s liens are powerful tools used by contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers to secure payment for work performed or materials provided. If someone who contributed to improving the property is not paid, they might have the right to file a lien against your home, even if you’ve already paid someone else in full.

Understanding how mechanic’s liens work in Ohio can help you avoid surprise claims and protect your property from legal entanglements.

What is a mechanic’s lien? 

A mechanic’s lien is a legal tool employed by contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers to ensure that they get paid for the work they’ve done or for materials that added value to someone’s property. When the lien is first filed, it becomes part of the public property records. That can create real headaches for the homeowner. It can block the sale of the home or refinancing until the debt is resolved.

In Ohio, mechanic’s liens are governed by Ohio Revised Code §1311. This rule spells out who can file a lien, what deadlines must be met, and the proper steps to follow. Missing a deadline or making a procedural mistake can invalidate the lien. Precision matters.

How DIY renovators can be caught off guard 

Many homeowners assume that if they paid their contractor, they’re protected from a mechanic’s lien. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Consider this: you hire a general contractor to remodel your kitchen. The contractor hires a subcontractor (like an electrician) or buys materials on credit from a supplier. You pay the contractor, but the contractor never pays the subcontractor or supplier. The unpaid subcontractor or supplier can then file a mechanic’s lien against you, even though you met your end of the bargain.

Warning signs that a lien could be coming 

As a homeowner, you should keep an eye out for the following red flags:

• Subcontractors ask who is paying them, indicating uncertainty about payment.
• Suppliers send you documents called “Notices of Furnishing”.
• Work stalls without a clear explanation.
• A contractor requests payments that exceed completed work.

If you receive a Notice of Furnishing, you should not ignore it. The supplier or subcontractor is preserving their right to file a lien later.

Talk to a Dayton, OH, Mechanic’s Lien Attorney Today 

Kohl & Cook Law Firm, LLC, represents the interests of Ohio residents who have had a mechanic’s lien filed against their property. Call our Dayton mechanic’s lien lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your next steps right away.