Lien deadlines
Mechanics Lien Deadline Calculator
Estimate notice and lien dates for subcontractor claims before the calendar closes your leverage.
Enter project details
This calculator reflects the subcontractor timing rules in the current tool dataset. State notice requirements can turn on specific conditions, so use the notes below before relying on a date.
Missing one required notice can wipe out lien rights even when the work was performed and the money is still owed.
Estimated deadlines
South Carolina subcontractor timing summary from the current rule set.
Preliminary notice
Enter your project dates
Required in some cases; safest to send within this timeframe.
Lien filing deadline
Enter your project dates
File within 90 days of your last work.
State-specific watchouts
- Required if Notice of Commencement is filed
- Punch list work does not extend deadline
Preliminary notice rule: Condition-based
Preliminary notice window: 20 days
Lien filing window: 90 days
Why the last day worked matters
Many lien deadlines run from your final furnishing date, not from when you sent the invoice or decided the account was a problem. If your records are vague, it becomes harder to defend the filing window.
Preliminary notices are separate from lien filing
A preliminary notice is an earlier preservation step. In several states, it can be required before you ever reach the lien filing deadline, and late notice may only protect part of the work.
Related resources
Missing a lien deadline can eliminate your right to get paid.