Step 1 — Send the Illinois 90-Day Notice (Subs Only)
Subs must notify the owner:
Within 90 days of last furnishing
Via certified mail or personal service
Must describe the work/materials and amount owed
GCs skip this step.
Step 2 — Prepare the Illinois Mechanics Lien Claim
Your Illinois lien must include:
Legal property description
Name of the property owner
Name/address of the claimant
Contract amount
Amount paid
Amount unpaid
First and last date of furnishing
Description of labor/materials
Verification (sworn statement)
Step 3 — Record the Lien with the County Recorder
You must record your lien in the county where the property is located.
Illinois requires:
Original notarized affidavit
County recording fee
Timely filing
You may file:
In person
By mail
Electronically (depends on county)
Step 4 — Serve the Recorded Lien on the Owner
Illinois requires you to serve a copy of the recorded lien on the owner promptly after recording. Certified mail is recommended.
Step 5 — Enforce the Illinois Mechanics Lien
If you remain unpaid, you must file a foreclosure lawsuit within 2 years of your last date of furnishing.
Attorney representation is recommended.