Do I need to send a preliminary notice before filing a lien in Pennsylvania?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
Yes, in Pennsylvania, you need to send a preliminary notice if you're a subcontractor or supplier before filing a mechanics lien. This notice must be sent within 45 days of your first work or delivery to the project.
Key points
- Preliminary notice is required for subs and suppliers.
- Must be sent within 45 days of starting work.
- Not sending notice can affect lien rights.
In Pennsylvania, the preliminary notice is important for subcontractors and suppliers to protect their lien rights. If you don't send it within the required timeframe, you risk losing the ability to file a mechanics lien later. This notice informs the property owner that you are working on their project and helps with payment.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium helps track deadlines and compliance requirements for sending preliminary notices.
See how it worksRelated questions
- Can a subcontractor file a lien without a written contract in Pennsylvania?
- How long does a mechanics lien last in Pennsylvania?
- How much retainage can be withheld on a construction project in Pennsylvania?
- What are the prompt payment rules for construction in Pennsylvania?
- What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in Pennsylvania?
- What is the difference between a conditional and unconditional lien waiver in Pennsylvania?
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.