Do I need to send a preliminary notice before filing a lien in Arizona?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
Yes, in Arizona, you must send a preliminary notice to the property owner and the general contractor before filing a mechanics lien. This notice is needed to keep your lien rights if you are a subcontractor or supplier.
Key points
- Preliminary notice is required in Arizona.
- Send it to the property owner and GC.
- Not sending notice can forfeit lien rights.
In Arizona, the preliminary notice is a necessary step for subcontractors and suppliers. It must be sent within 20 days of starting work or delivering materials. If you don't send this notice, you risk losing your right to file a lien, even if you have a valid claim later on.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium can help you track compliance deadlines for sending notices and filing liens.
See how it worksRelated questions
- Can a subcontractor file a lien without a written contract in Arizona?
- How long does a mechanics lien last in Arizona?
- How much retainage can be withheld on a construction project in Arizona?
- What are the prompt payment rules for construction in Arizona?
- What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in Arizona?
- What is the difference between a conditional and unconditional lien waiver in Arizona?
General information for US construction professionals — not legal advice. Lien deadlines, retainage caps and notice rules vary by state; verify with the state statute or a construction attorney.