New Mexico · NMSA 1978, §§48-2-1–48-2-17New Mexico mechanic's lien deadlines: 120 days, 90 days and two years
An original contractor files a New Mexico lien claim with the county clerk within 120 days after completing the contract; everyone else files within 90 days after completion of the building, improvement, alteration or repair (NMSA 1978, §48-2-6(A)). The claimant mails, emails, sends by certified mail or hand-delivers a copy of the filed claim to the owner within 15 days of filing; failing to do so may cost interest, attorney's fees or costs (§48-2-6(B)). A lien is no longer valid two years after the claim is filed unless a court or binding-arbitration proceeding to enforce it has started (§48-2-10).
The rules
1. Original contractor (§48-2-6(A))
120 days after completing the contract.
2. Everyone else (§48-2-6(A))
90 days after completion of the work.
3. Copy to owner (§48-2-6(B))
Within 15 days after filing.
4. Duration (§48-2-10)
Two years unless enforcement has started.
What the TC can do
- Ask the seller about work completed in the last four months.
- Ask whether the seller received a copy of a filed lien claim.
- Collect paid invoices and lien waivers for the title company.
Questions about New Mexico mechanic's liens
How long does a New Mexico contractor have to file a lien?
120 days after completing the contract for an original contractor; 90 days after completion for others (NMSA 1978, §48-2-6(A)).
How long does a New Mexico lien last?
Two years after filing unless enforcement proceedings have started (NMSA 1978, §48-2-10).
Related guides
Add the lien questions and waivers to the deal's task list in ClosingCode.
Start free trialSource: NMSA 1978, §§48-2-6 and 48-2-10 (New Mexico Statutes Annotated 1978 at nmonesource.com, 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.