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 Iowa, a lien is a legal claim against property that serves as security for the payment of a debt or fulfillment of an obligation. One common type of lien is the mechanic's lien, which contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers can file if they have not been paid for labor or materials used to improve real property. To enforce a mechanic's lien in Iowa, the claimant must file a lien statement with the clerk of the district court in the county where the property is located within 90 days from the last date of supplying labor or materials. Another type of lien is the homeowners' association (HOA) lien, which can be placed on a homeowner's property for unpaid association dues or assessments. The process for enforcing an HOA lien in Iowa involves providing notice to the homeowner and, if the debt remains unpaid, potentially initiating foreclosure proceedings. It's important to note that Iowa law sets forth specific procedures and timelines for filing and enforcing liens, and failure to comply with these requirements can affect the validity of the lien. Homeowners and claimants should consult with an attorney to understand their rights and obligations under Iowa's lien laws.