A pre-lien notice is the early warning that keeps your lien rights alive. In Texas and most of the states we serve, a sub or supplier who didn't contract directly with the owner has to send a notice before a lien is even possible. Miss it, and the lien may be gone before you knew you needed it. Our pre-lien notices are $100.
Texas rule: Subs and suppliers send 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). It must be substantially in the statutory form and delivered by certified mail, in person, or another traceable service (§ 53.003).
What a pre-lien notice does
- Preserves your lien rights. In Texas, a sub's lien isn't valid without the notice of claim.
- Lets the owner trap funds. Once a Texas owner receives the notice, it may withhold enough from the GC to cover your claim (§ 53.081). After that, payments the owner makes to the GC are at the owner's risk if your lien is later secured and proven (§ 53.084).
- Gets you paid. Owners don't like seeing their name on a notice. Many claims get paid at this step.
What it's called in other states
| State | Early notice | When |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Notice of claim | 15th of the 3rd month after each unpaid month (2nd on residential) |
| Ohio | Notice of Furnishing | 21 days after first furnishing, if an NOC was recorded |
| Michigan | Notice of Furnishing | 20 days after first furnishing |
| Minnesota | Prelien notice | 45 days after first furnishing (subs and suppliers) |
| Montana | Notice of Right to Claim a Lien | 20 days after first furnishing, then recorded |
| Georgia | Notice to Contractor | 30 days, only if a Notice of Commencement was filed |
| Washington | Notice to Owner | Covers the 60 days before it's sent |
| Oklahoma | Pre-lien notice | Within 75 days of last furnishing, before filing |
Not every state uses an early notice, and some only require one on certain jobs. Pick your state or call and we'll tell you what applies.
When to send it
Send it when payment is late, not when you've given up. In Texas, the notice is tied to each month of unpaid work, so if you're unpaid for three months you may need notices covering all three. Some contractors send a notice on every job as routine so it never looks personal. That's a smart habit.
What we need
- Property address
- Who hired you and the GC's name
- The months you worked and the unpaid amount for each
- Your invoices
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 lien services
Notices of intent · Retainage claims · Payment bond claims · Lien releases · Mechanics lien filing
Frequently asked questions
What is a pre-lien notice?
An early notice to the owner (and often the GC) that you're owed money on the job. In Texas, subs and suppliers must send a notice of claim before they can file a valid lien.
How much does a pre-lien notice cost?
$100 with LevelSet Collections.
Do general contractors need to send a pre-lien notice in Texas?
No. Contractors hired directly by the owner don't send the notice of claim. Subs and suppliers do.
How is the notice delivered?
In Texas, by certified mail, in person, or another traceable delivery service that confirms receipt (§ 53.003).
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.
Payment running late?
Send a pre-lien notice for $100 and keep your lien rights alive. Call (469) 694-8003.
