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 Kansas, 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 a mechanic's lien, which contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers can file if they have not been paid for work performed or materials provided to improve real property. To enforce a mechanic's lien in Kansas, the claimant must file a statement with the county clerk within a specific time frame after the last provision of labor or materials. Another type of lien is a homeowners' association (HOA) lien, which an HOA can place on a homeowner's property for unpaid dues or assessments. Kansas law outlines the procedures for filing and enforcing these liens, and the rights of both the lienholder and the property owner. It is important for property owners and those seeking to place a lien to understand the specific requirements and timelines set forth by Kansas statutes to ensure the lien is valid and enforceable.