FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to Common Inquiries
WHAT EXACTLY IS A LIEN ANYWAY?
A lien is simply a claim on property such as real estate, a car or boat. A construction lien applies when a contractor does work on a property and hasn't been paid the full amount owed for providing services. The lien can be registered against title to the property which makes it difficult to sell or refinance. Owners don't like liens and generally will pay the bill once they find out the lien has been registered.
IS MY SITUATION APPLICABLE FOR FILING A LIEN?
If you are a contractor in Ontario, and your customer is a property owner that owes you money for services performed (whether or not the job was completed), you are eligible.
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However, the following strict timeline applies:
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​You must file a construction lien within 60 DAYS of the last work performed on the property
DO I NEED LIENMASTER TO REGISTER THE LIEN FOR ME?
In Ontario, you must hire a professional with access to a land title registration software called Teraview. Unfortunately, you cannot do the registration yourself.
CAN YOU HELP WITH OTHER TYPES OF LIENS?
Yes we can! Our website will soon be updated for filing Mechanics Liens and Storage and Repair Liens in Ontario. Please email us today at contact@lienmaster.ca for more information while our website updates.
I'M IN A LAWSUIT INVOLVING A LIEN, WHAT HAPPENS?
We strongly recommend talking to a lawyer that specializes in lien litigation. We have partner relationships with some of the best lien lawyers, so feel free to email us for a referral.
WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS AFTER THE LIEN IS FILED?
After your lien is filed, we recommend negotiating immediately with the client who owes you money. In most cases, negotiations result in settlement. We offer template demand letters for an additional fee in which you can notify the client of the lien on the property and demand a settlement.
If this fails, you have another 90 DAYS to file a COURT ACTION. We have close relationships with law firms that provide exceptional service for a fair fee. Get in touch with us for a referral.
WHAT IF I ONLY SUPPLIED MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT FOR A JOB?
Pretty well all individuals that worked on a construction project will have a right to file a lien, including suppliers of equipment, materials, architects, and those who provided design services