HVAC invoices are equipment-heavy. You may have paid your distributor for condensers and air handlers long before the builder pays you, which means an unpaid HVAC job hurts cash flow fast. On new construction you might rough in during one month, set equipment in another and start up the system months later, with each step on a different invoice.
Where payment breaks down for HVAC contractors
- You've already paid your supply house for equipment the builder hasn't paid you for.
- Start-up happens months after rough-in, so the dates spread out.
- Replacement jobs for homeowners get disputed after install over comfort complaints.
- Builders hold final payment until the whole house closes.
Your lien rights as an HVAC contractor
On a homeowner replacement, you're usually the original contractor, so homestead contract rules apply (a written contract signed before work, both spouses if married, filed with the county clerk). On builder jobs you're a sub and need monthly notices for unpaid work. Equipment delivered for the job is part of what you can lien for.
The Texas deadlines that apply to you
For original contracts signed on or after January 1, 2022, a sub or supplier sends a notice of claim to the owner and the original contractor by the 15th day of the 3rd month after each month of unpaid work, or the 2nd month on a residential job (Tex. Prop. Code § 53.056). The lien affidavit is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after your last month of work, or the 3rd month on a residential job (§ 53.052). A contractor hired directly by the owner sends no pre-lien notice and counts from the month the original contract was completed, terminated or abandoned. If a deadline lands on a weekend or legal holiday, it moves to the next business day (§ 53.003(e)). Full Texas deadline guide → · Deadline calculator →
Residential or commercial? Texas uses its shorter residential deadlines when the home is owned and lived in (or meant to be lived in) by the owner, under the Property Code's definition of a residence (§ 53.001). A new home still owned by a builder can fall under the longer commercial deadlines. We check which set applies before we file.
Real job, Wise County: an HVAC sub on residential new construction was owed $8,940. The lien deadline had passed, so the account went to collections, and payment was secured 74 days later. More on Wise County liens →
What to keep for every job
- Equipment invoices with model and serial numbers
- Rough-in, set and start-up dates
- Permit and inspection records
- Signed contract on homeowner jobs
Outside Texas?
We file liens for HVAC contractors in 18 states, in any county. Each state has its own notices and deadlines. See the states we serve →
Lien deadline passed or the lien didn't pay?
The debt is still owed. We collect unpaid construction invoices on contingency, 10% to 33%, with no charge if we don't collect. See construction collections →
Pricing and turnaround
Liens are $199 to $500, and that includes recording fees, notarizing and serving. Pre-lien notices are $100. Typical turnaround is 2 business days, and there's no minimum claim amount. Collections run on contingency, 10% to 33%, with no charge if we don't collect. Call (469) 694-8003, Monday through Friday, 8am to 7pm.
Other trades we file for
Roofing Contractors · Concrete Contractors · Plumbing Contractors · Electrical Contractors · Painting Contractors · Fencing Contractors · Flooring Contractors · Drywall Contractors · Landscaping Contractors · Lumber and Building Material Suppliers · Equipment Rental Companies
Frequently asked questions
Can I lien for equipment I installed?
Yes. Materials and equipment incorporated into the job are part of a lien claim, along with labor.
I replaced a system for a homeowner. Do I need a special contract?
If the house is their homestead, Texas requires a written contract signed before work starts, signed by both spouses if married, and filed with the county clerk for a valid lien.
What if my lien deadline already passed?
The debt is still owed. We can pursue it through collections on contingency, no collection, no charge.
This page is general information, not legal advice. LevelSet Collections is not a law firm; we prepare and file liens and notices as agent for the claimant. Deadlines change and depend on the facts of your job, so confirm your dates with us before relying on them.
Owed money as an HVAC contractor?
Liens $199 to $500, recording, notarizing and serving included. Usually filed in 2 business days. Call (469) 694-8003.
