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 Kentucky, 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 can file against real property when they have not been paid for labor or materials used in improving that property. Kentucky law outlines specific procedures for filing a mechanic's lien, including time limits and notice requirements. For example, a mechanic's lien must generally be filed within 6 months after the last item of labor or materials was furnished. Homeowners' associations (HOAs) in Kentucky may also place liens on properties for unpaid dues or assessments. These liens are governed by the governing documents of the HOA and state statutes, which may dictate the process for creating the lien, providing notice to the homeowner, and enforcing the lien. It's important to note that the effectiveness of any lien depends on proper adherence to the specific legal requirements for filing and notice as set forth in Kentucky law.