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 New Jersey, 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 material suppliers can file against a property if they have not been paid for work performed or materials provided. To enforce a mechanic's lien in New Jersey, the claimant must file a lien claim with the county clerk within 90 days of the last date of providing labor or materials. Another type of lien is the homeowners' association (HOA) lien, which can be placed on a property for unpaid association dues or assessments. New Jersey law requires the HOA to provide the homeowner with notice before recording a lien. The process and regulations for filing and enforcing liens are governed by New Jersey statutes, specifically the New Jersey Construction Lien Law for mechanic's liens and the New Jersey Condominium Act for HOA liens, among others. It is important for property owners and claimants to understand their rights and obligations under these laws, and they may wish to consult with an attorney for guidance specific to their situation.