A lien release (also known as a release of lien, lien cancellation, or cancellation of lien) is the document filed in the county records to release or discharge a mechanic’s and materialmen’s lien (also known as a construction lien or contractor lien) that was filed as a claim on the property title to secure payment for labor and materials provided to improve the real estate.
In California, a lien release, also known as a release of lien or lien cancellation, is a legal document used to remove a previously filed mechanic's lien from the property records. A mechanic's lien is a security interest that can be established by contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers who have not been paid for labor or materials provided for property improvements. Once the debt is paid or otherwise satisfied, the party who filed the lien must issue a lien release to clear the title of the property. In California, the lien claimant has 10 days after satisfaction of the lien to execute and record a release of the lien. If the lien claimant fails to do so, they may be liable to the property owner for any damages incurred as a result. The release must be recorded with the county recorder's office where the property is located. It is important to ensure that the lien release is properly drafted and recorded to effectively clear the property's title.