Do I need to send a preliminary notice before filing a lien in North Carolina?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
Yes, in North Carolina, you must send a preliminary notice before filing a lien if you are a subcontractor or supplier. This notice should be sent to the property owner and the general contractor within 15 days of starting work or delivering materials to preserve your lien rights.
Key points
- Preliminary notice is required for subs and suppliers.
- Send it within 15 days of starting work or delivery.
- Failure to send may affect your lien rights.
North Carolina law requires subcontractors and suppliers to notify the owner and GC before they can file a lien. This helps the owner know who is working on the project and ensures they are aware of potential claims against the property. Check the North Carolina lien statute for specific details on the notice requirements.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium can help track compliance deadlines and ensure you send the necessary notices.
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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.