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Release a Mechanics Lien
Remove Liens From Property

Remove a mechanics lien from property records after payment or settlement. Our lien release service prepares and files the paperwork to clear construction liens in all 50 states.

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Lien Removal

What Is a Lien Release?

A lien release (or lien waiver release, lien discharge, or mechanics lien release) is a document that removes or cancels a previously filed mechanics lien from property records. Once you've been paid, settled a dispute, or resolved the underlying debt, you typically need to file a lien release to clear the property's title.

Property owners, lenders, and buyers need clear title to sell or refinance. A lien that remains on the books after payment can block closings and create legal headaches. Our service prepares state-compliant lien release documents and handles the filing process so the property is cleared properly.

When to File a Lien Release

  • ✓ After full payment for work or materials
  • ✓ After a settlement or negotiated agreement
  • ✓ Pursuant to court order or legal resolution
  • ✓ When lien was filed in error and needs cancellation

When to File a Lien Release

Timing matters. File a lien release when the underlying obligation is satisfied—or when required by law or agreement.

After Payment

Once you receive full payment for the work or materials underlying the lien, you should release the mechanics lien so the property owner can clear title.

After Settlement

If you reach a negotiated settlement or agreement with the property owner or other party, a lien release is often part of the deal—releasing the lien in exchange for payment or other terms.

Court Order

In some cases, a court may order a lien release (e.g., when a lien is invalid or the claim is dismissed). We can help prepare the documents to clear the lien from the records.

Types of Lien Releases

Different situations call for different release documents. We prepare the right one for your circumstances.

Full Lien Release

Releases the entire mechanics lien after full payment. Use when you've received 100% of what you're owed and are releasing all claims against the property.

Partial Lien Release

Releases a portion of the lien amount when partial payment is received. Common on large projects with progress payments.

Lien Cancellation

Used when a lien was filed in error or is no longer valid. Cancels the lien without implying payment was received.

Conditional Release

Becomes effective upon receipt of payment (e.g., upon check clearing). Protects both parties in the release process.

How It Works

File your lien release in three simple steps

1

Provide lien details

Give us the recorded lien information (county, document number, date) and confirmation that payment or settlement has occurred.

2

We prepare the release

Our team drafts the correct lien release document for your state—full release, partial release, or cancellation—matching the original lien filing.

3

We file it for you

We record the lien release with the same county recorder where the mechanics lien was filed, clearing the property's title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to release a mechanics lien after payment?
Yes, in most cases. Once you're paid, you're generally obligated to release the lien. Contract terms often require it, and many states impose penalties (including liability for damages) if you unreasonably refuse to release a paid lien. Releasing promptly also maintains your professional reputation.
Where do I file a lien release?
You file a lien release with the same county recorder's office where the original mechanics lien was recorded. The release references the original lien's recording number and clears it from the property's title. We handle the filing for you in the correct jurisdiction.
What's the difference between a lien release and a lien waiver?
A lien waiver is typically signed before or at the time of payment—you waive your right to file or maintain a lien in exchange for payment. A lien release is filed after a lien has already been recorded—it removes the lien from the county records. Both clear your claim; the lien release is used when a mechanics lien was previously filed.
How long does it take to release a mechanics lien?
Once we have the lien details and confirmation of payment, we typically prepare and file the lien release within 1–3 business days. County recording times vary, but the release is usually recorded and reflected in public records within a few days. We provide proof of filing when complete.
Can I release a lien if I was only partially paid?
Yes. You can file a partial lien release that reduces the lien amount by the amount paid, or that releases the lien entirely if you've agreed to accept partial payment in full satisfaction. Be careful with partial payments—ensure your release language matches your intent. We can prepare a partial release that reflects the correct amount and protects your remaining claim if applicable.

Need to Release a Mechanics Lien?

Remove construction liens from property records in all 50 states. Fast, state-compliant lien release service.

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