Missouri's filing window is 6 months, but the notices before it trip people up. GCs need a statutory notice to the owner before they get paid. Subs and suppliers need to serve (not just mail) a notice of intent at least 10 days before filing. And on home remodels, subs may have no lien at all without the owner's signed consent.
Quick answer: GCs give the owner the statutory "Notice to Owner" before receiving payment. Everyone else serves the owner a notice of intent at least 10 days before filing. Everyone files with the circuit court clerk within 6 months after the debt accrues, and sues within 6 months after filing.
Missouri lien deadlines at a glance
| Step | Who | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Notice to Owner | Original contractor | Before receiving any payment (at contract, delivery, start of work or first invoice) |
| Notice of intent | Subs, suppliers, everyone but the GC | At least 10 days before filing |
| Lien statement | Everyone | 6 months after the debt accrues (generally last furnishing) |
| Enforcement suit | Everyone | 6 months after filing |
Who can file a lien in Missouri
Original contractors, subs, laborers and suppliers of materials, fixtures or machinery can lien, along with landscapers, equipment renters (with their own notice rules) and registered architects, engineers and surveyors with a written contract.
Notices before the lien
The original contractor must give the owner a written "NOTICE TO OWNER" in 10-point bold type before receiving any payment. Without it, the GC has no lien.
Everyone other than the original contractor must give the owner written notice of intent at least 10 days before filing. It must be served by someone authorized to serve civil process, or by an adult who signs an affidavit of service. Regular mail isn't enough.
Filing the lien
File a just and true account of what's owed, verified under oath, with the circuit court clerk of the county within 6 months after the debt accrues. Courts generally treat that as your last day of furnishing.
Residential jobs
On repair, remodel or addition work on owner-occupied homes of 4 units or fewer (not new construction), subs and suppliers have no lien unless the owner signed a separate "CONSENT OF OWNER" in 10-point bold type, and a copy is attached to the lien. If you're a sub on a remodel, get that consent before you start.
After you file
Missouri's statute doesn't have a separate step for mailing the owner a copy after filing (your notice of intent already went to them). You must sue to enforce within 6 months after filing and keep the case moving.
Mistakes that cost Missouri contractors their lien
- Mailing the notice of intent instead of having it served, or filing before 10 days have passed.
- A sub on an owner-occupied remodel with no signed Consent of Owner.
- A GC who never gave the Notice to Owner before getting paid.
Missed the deadline or the lien didn't pay?
The debt doesn't go away when lien rights do. The party that hired you still owes you, and we can pursue it through construction collections on contingency, 10% to 33%, with no charge if we don't collect. Here's what you can still do.
Still in your window? We prepare, file and serve Missouri liens, usually in about 2 business days. Start a lien →
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file a mechanics lien in Missouri?
6 months after the debt accrues, which is generally your last day of furnishing labor or materials.
What is the Missouri 10-day notice?
Everyone except the original contractor must serve the owner a written notice of the claim at least 10 days before filing the lien. It must be served by a process server or an adult who signs an affidavit, not just mailed.
How long does a Missouri lien last?
You must file suit within 6 months after filing the lien.
This article is general information, not legal advice. LevelSet Collections is not a law firm. Deadlines are based on Missouri Revised Statutes chapter 429 as of October 2026, and lien laws change. Confirm your dates for your specific job. Sources: RSMo § 429.012, RSMo § 429.080, RSMo § 429.100.
Owed money on a Missouri job?
Liens from $199, filed in about 2 business days. Call (469) 694-8003.
