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Alabama · Ala. Code §§35-11-210–35-11-226Alabama mechanic's lien deadlines: six months, four months and 30 days

An Alabama lien is lost unless the verified statement is filed in the probate office within six months by an original contractor, within 30 days by a journeyman or day laborer, and within four months by anyone else, counted from the last work or the last material furnished (Ala. Code §35-11-215). Everyone except the original contractor must, before filing, give the owner written notice of the lien claimed – the amount, what for and from whom it is owed; after that notice, any unpaid balance the owner holds is subject to the lien (§35-11-218). A supplier who notified the owner in advance under §35-11-210 doesn't need the later notice (§35-11-218). The suit to enforce the lien is filed within six months after the entire debt matures (§35-11-221).

The rules

  1. 1. Original contractor (§35-11-215)

    Six months after the last work or material.

  2. 2. Journeyman or day laborer (§35-11-215)

    30 days.

  3. 3. Everyone else (§35-11-215)

    Four months.

  4. 4. Notice to owner (§35-11-218)

    Written notice before filing, except for the original contractor.

  5. 5. Suit (§35-11-221)

    Within six months after the entire debt matures.

What the TC can do

  • Ask the seller about any work or materials in the last six months.
  • Ask whether the seller received a written lien notice from a subcontractor or supplier.
  • Collect paid invoices and lien waivers for the title company.

Questions about Alabama mechanic's liens

How long does an Alabama contractor have to file a lien?

Six months after the last work or material for an original contractor (Ala. Code §35-11-215).

Does an Alabama subcontractor have to notify the owner?

Yes, in writing before filing the lien statement, unless the material was furnished after advance notice to the owner (Ala. Code §35-11-218).

Related guides

Add the lien questions and waivers to the deal's task list in ClosingCode.

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Source: Code of Alabama §§35-11-215, 35-11-218 and 35-11-221 (alison.legislature.state.al.us, read October 28, 2026).

General information, not legal advice. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.