Do I need to send a preliminary notice before filing a lien in California?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
Yes, in California, you must send a preliminary notice to the property owner, the general contractor, and the lender before filing a mechanics lien. This notice needs to be sent within 20 days of starting work or delivering materials to protect your lien rights.
Key points
- Preliminary notice is needed for lien rights in California.
- Send it within 20 days of starting work or delivering materials.
- Notify the property owner, general contractor, and lender.
California law requires subcontractors and suppliers to provide a preliminary notice to keep their right to file a mechanics lien. This notice informs everyone involved about the parties providing materials or services. Not sending this notice can affect your ability to file a lien later.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium can help track compliance deadlines and manage your preliminary notice process.
See how it worksRelated questions
- Can a subcontractor file a lien without a written contract in California?
- How long does a mechanics lien last in California?
- How much retainage can be withheld on a construction project in California?
- What are the prompt payment rules for construction in California?
- What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in California?
- What is the difference between a conditional and unconditional lien waiver in California?
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.