Missouri Construction Lien FAQ

You must file the lien within six (6) months of your last furnishing of labor or materials.

Missouri uses a Notice of Intent to File a Mechanics Lien, which applies only in limited situations. Specifically, subcontractors and material suppliers working on owner-occupied residential projects must send this notice before filing a lien. The purpose of the Notice of Intent is to give the homeowner a final warning that a lien will be filed if payment is not made, often encouraging resolution before a lien is recorded.

This notice must be served on the property owner at least ten (10) days before filing the mechanics lien. It is not required for general contractors, nor is it required on commercial projects or non-owner-occupied residential properties. Failing to send the Notice of Intent when required can invalidate the lien entirely, even if the lien is otherwise filed on time.

In Missouri, General contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, laborers, equipment rental companies, restoration contractors, and certain design professionals may file liens if they improve property and remain unpaid.

If you miss the filing deadline, your lien rights are lost.

Missouri liens are filed with the Circuit Clerk in the county where the property is located.

A Missouri mechanics lien must be enforced by filing suit within six (6) months after the lien is filed.

In Missouri, the construction lien must include the legal property description, owner information, claimant information, hiring party, description of work or materials, amount claimed, last date of work, and a notarized verification.

No. Missouri does not impose a minimum or maximum lien amount.

Yes. Multiple unpaid contractors or suppliers may file separate liens against the same property.

If the customer pays you the full amount owed after you have recorded a lien, you have a legal obligation to formally clear the lien from the property records.

You must prepare and file a Missouri Discharge of Lien (or Release of Lien) with the same office where the original lien was recorded.