A lien (pronounced lean) is a legal right, claim, or interest in another person’s property that remains until a debt is paid or an obligation is fulfilled. For example, a lien may be placed on real property to secure a contractor’s claim for payment for work or materials provided to improve the property (a mechanic’s lien) or by a homeowners’ association to secure payment for unpaid dues or assessments against an individual homeowner.

There are many different types of liens related to real property and the laws regarding these liens may vary from state to state.

In Alaska, a lien is a legal claim against property to secure payment for a debt or fulfillment of an obligation. One common type of lien is the mechanic's lien, which contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers can file against real property when they have not been paid for labor or materials used in improving the property. To enforce a mechanic's lien in Alaska, the claimant must file a notice of the right to a lien within 120 days after ceasing to provide labor, services, or materials, and must file a lawsuit to foreclose the lien within six months after the recording of the notice of lien. Homeowners' associations (HOAs) can also place liens on property for unpaid dues or assessments. These liens are typically governed by the HOA's declarations and bylaws, as well as state statutes. Alaska Statutes Title 34, Chapter 35 provides the legal framework for various types of liens, including mechanic's liens and HOA liens, and outlines the procedures for filing and enforcing these liens. It is important for property owners and claimants to understand the specific requirements and timelines set forth by Alaska law to ensure the validity and enforceability of a lien.