🛠️ Mechanics Liens in Nevada: Protecting Your Property
Have you ever hired a contractor, builder, or repair company, or even an auto repair company, and then faced unexpected bills, disputes, or shoddy work? In Nevada, construction professionals have a powerful legal tool to compel you to pay them, known as a mechanics lien. This lien helps licensed repair companies to secure the title to your home or car, which affects the title to these assets.
At A Fresh Start Law, Attorney Dorothy Bunce helps homeowners and car owners fight these unfair mechanics liens and find practical solutions when debt disputes arise.
🔎 What Is a Mechanics Lien?
A mechanics lien is a legal claim that contractors, subcontractors, mechanics, suppliers, or laborers can file against your property if they believe they haven’t been paid for work or materials.
- Applies to real estate – Can attach to your home, rental property, or commercial building that the contractor worked on.
- Applies to motor vehicles– Attaches to your car, truck, motor home, RV, or any other asset where DMV issues an ownership title.
- Blocks refinancing or sale – Like other liens, a mechanics lien clouds your property title.
- Can lead to foreclosure or repossession – A contractor may be able to force the sale of your property to repay the lien.
⚠️ Common Problems with Mechanics Liens
Mechanics liens were designed to protect honest workers and suppliers — but they’re often abused. Problems arise when:
- Contractors file inflated or fraudulent liens.
- Subcontractors file liens even if you have already paid the general contractor.
- Liens are filed late or without proper legal notice.
- Work performed was defective, incomplete, or never approved.
Because Nevada lien laws are strict, mistakes are common, and many liens can be challenged or even removed with the right legal strategy.
🛡️ How We Help You at A Fresh Start Law
Attorney Dorothy Bunce has decades of experience defending Nevadans against unfair liens. We can:
- Investigate the lien’s validity – Was it filed correctly and on time?
- Challenge fraudulent or excessive claims – Many liens are exaggerated or illegal.
- Negotiate settlements – Sometimes the fastest solution is a reduced payoff.
- Use court action if needed – If the lien is invalid, we can ask a court to have it removed.
- Protect your rights in bankruptcy – In some cases, bankruptcy may help discharge or manage debts tied to mechanics liens.
❓ FAQ About Mechanics Liens.
How long does a mechanics lien last in Nevada?
Generally, a mechanics lien is valid for 6 months, but this timeline may be extended by filing a lawsuit against you to enforce it.
Can I sell or refinance with a mechanics lien?
No. A lien clouds your title, meaning you can’t close a sale or refinance until it’s resolved.
What if I already paid the contractor?
Unfortunately, subcontractors or suppliers can still file liens if the general contractor failed to pay them. We can challenge these liens and protect you.
Can a mechanics lien be removed?
Yes. Invalid liens can be eliminated through legal action, and others may be negotiated or resolved through payment arrangements.
📞 Don’t Let a Mechanics Lien Threaten Your Home or Your Vehicle
If a contractor or supplier has filed a mechanics lien against your Nevada property, don’t panic — but don’t ignore it either. These liens are powerful but often flawed. With the right legal help, you may be able to remove or reduce them and protect your property.
Call A Fresh Start Law today at (702) 551-3256 or reach out online for a free consultation with Attorney Dorothy Bunce. Together, we’ll find the best solution to protect your home and your financial future.