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 North Dakota, a lien is a legal claim against property that ensures payment of a debt or fulfillment of an obligation. One common type of lien is the mechanic's lien, which contractors can use to secure payment for labor or materials provided for property improvements. To enforce a mechanic's lien, North Dakota law requires the contractor to file a statement of claim with the county recorder within 90 days after the last delivery of materials or performance of labor. 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 North Dakota typically involves providing notice to the homeowner and may require legal action to collect the debt. It's important to note that lien laws are subject to specific procedural requirements, such as timely filing and proper notice to the property owner, and failure to comply with these requirements can affect the enforceability of the lien.