Massachusetts Mechanics Lien Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a mechanics lien in Massachusetts — deadlines, requirements, costs, and a free document generator.
Understanding Massachusetts Mechanics Lien Law
Massachusetts mechanics lien rights are governed by Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 254, §§ 1-32. To file a mechanics lien in Massachusetts, you must record your claim with the Registry of Deeds in the county where the property is located. The estimated recording fee is $105-$150, though fees vary by county.
Some claimant types in Massachusetts are required to send a preliminary notice before filing a lien. Check the requirements for your specific role below.
Massachusetts Mechanics Lien Deadlines by Role
| Role | Preliminary Notice | Lien Filing Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | Not required | 120 days from last furnishing |
| Subcontractor | 30 days from first furnishing | 120 days from last furnishing |
Use our deadline calculator to find your exact filing dates based on your project timeline.
Requirements by Role
General Contractor
- Lien Deadline
- 120 days from last furnishing
- Preliminary Notice
- Not required
- Filing Office
- Registry of Deeds
- Estimated Recording Fee
- $105-$150
- Statute Reference
- Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 254, §§ 1-32
Must file within 120 days of last furnishing. Written contract required — no written contract means no lien rights. High recording fees.
Subcontractor
- Lien Deadline
- 120 days from last furnishing
- Preliminary Notice
- Required — 30 days from first furnishing
- Filing Office
- Registry of Deeds
- Estimated Recording Fee
- $105-$150
- Statute Reference
- Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 254, §§ 1-32
Must file Notice of Identification within 30 days of commencing work. File lien within 120 days of last furnishing. Written contract required.
What You Need to File
Gather the following information before preparing your Massachusetts mechanics lien document:
- ✓Your full legal name (or business name)
- ✓Property owner's name
- ✓Property address (legal description preferred)
- ✓Description of work performed or materials supplied
- ✓Total amount owed
- ✓Name of the party who hired you
How to File a Mechanics Lien in Massachusetts
- 1
Send Your Preliminary Notice
Check whether your role requires a preliminary notice in Massachusetts. If required, send it within the specified deadline to preserve your lien rights. Learn more in our preliminary notice guide.
- 2
Gather Your Documentation
Collect all required information including contract details, payment records, and property information. See the checklist above for the complete list.
- 3
Prepare Your Lien Document
Use our free Massachusetts lien generator to create a state-compliant mechanics lien document with all required fields.
- 4
Record with the Registry of Deeds
File your completed lien document with the Registry of Deeds in the county where the property is located. Expect to pay approximately $105-$150 in recording fees.
- 5
Serve Notice on the Property Owner
After recording, serve a copy of the filed lien on the property owner as required by Massachusetts law. Keep proof of service for your records.
Important Notes for Massachusetts
Must file within 120 days of last furnishing. Written contract required — no written contract means no lien rights. High recording fees.
Must file Notice of Identification within 30 days of commencing work. File lien within 120 days of last furnishing. Written contract required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a mechanics lien in Massachusetts?
Deadlines vary by role. General Contractors have 120 days from last furnishing. Subcontractors have 120 days from last furnishing. These deadlines are strictly enforced — missing them means losing your lien rights.
Do I need to send a preliminary notice in Massachusetts?
General Contractors are not required to send a preliminary notice. Subcontractors must send a preliminary notice within 30 days of first furnishing. Even when not required, sending a preliminary notice is recommended as a best practice.
Where do I file a mechanics lien in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, mechanics liens are filed with the Registry of Deeds in the county where the property is located.
How much does it cost to file a mechanics lien in Massachusetts?
The estimated recording fee in Massachusetts is $105-$150. Fees vary by county and may change. Contact your local Registry of Deeds for current rates.
What information do I need to file a mechanics lien in Massachusetts?
You will need: Your full legal name (or business name), Property owner's name, Property address (legal description preferred), Description of work performed or materials supplied, Total amount owed, Name of the party who hired you. Subcontractors and suppliers may also need the name of the party who hired them.
Related Resources
What Is a Mechanics Lien?
A comprehensive overview of mechanics liens and how they protect your right to payment.
How to File a Mechanics Lien
Step-by-step guide to preparing and filing your mechanics lien document.
Preliminary Notice Requirements
Learn when and how to send a preliminary notice to protect your lien rights.
Deadline Calculator
Calculate your exact filing deadlines based on your project dates and role.
Ready to File Your Massachusetts Mechanics Lien?
Our guided form will walk you through the state-specific requirements and generate your document.
Generate Your Massachusetts Lien DocumentDisclaimer: This guide provides general information about Massachusetts mechanics lien law and is not legal advice. Laws change frequently and may vary based on project type, contract terms, and local requirements. Always consult with a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.