Iowa has implemented an online Registry for the filing of mechanics’ liens; the Registry is located on the Iowa Secretary of State’s website. As such, mechanics’ liens are no longer filed in person at the courthouse. In addition, the Iowa Legislature has implemented new requirements which apply to residential construction projects. If you are a general contractor who will be hiring a subcontractor to provide labor or materials on a residential project, you must post a “Notice of Commencement of Work” on the online Registry within 10 days after commencement of work AND must also provide the owner with a specific written notice (which is also set forth in the new law). A general contractor who fails to follow the new procedures is not entitled to file a lien on a residential property. In addition, if you are a subcontractor on a residential project, you must post a “Preliminary Notice” to the Registry if you want to preserve your right to file a mechanics’ lien. The new rules must be followed or you will lose your lien rights. If you have any questions, please contact attorney Anthony Osborn.
You can learn more information about Iowa’s Online Mechanics’ Lien Registry HERE.
For more information about Iowa's Lien Registry, contact Attorney Anthony Osborn at the Goosmann Law Firm at info@goosmannlaw.com or call 712-226-4000.