Illinois Construction Lien FAQ

You must file within 4 months of your last furnishing to retain priority.

For additional information, check out Illinois Mechanics/Construction Lien (Step-By-Step)

Yes. Subs must serve the 90-Day Notice within 90 days of last furnishing.

With the County Recorder of Deeds where the property is located.

• Legal description

• Owner information

• Claimant information

• First/last furnishing dates

• Contract amount

• Amount paid/unpaid

• Description of work/materials

• Sworn verification

Your lien loses priority and may become unenforceable against third parties.

You must file suit within 2 years of your last furnishing date.

Yes. Each unpaid contractor/supplier may file a separate lien.

Illinois allows mechanics liens to be filed by general contractors, subcontractors, sub-subcontractors, material suppliers, laborers, equipment rental companies, and certain design professionals who furnish labor, materials, or services that improve real property. If you contributed to the project and were not paid, you may have lien rights under Illinois law.

No. Illinois does not impose a minimum or maximum dollar amount for filing a mechanics lien. A lien may be filed for any unpaid balance owed, although contractors should always consider whether the cost of filing and enforcing a lien is proportional to the amount in dispute.

You must file a Lien Release / Satisfaction with the County Recorder.