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 Oklahoma, 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 a mechanic's lien, which contractors can use to secure payment for labor or materials provided for property improvements. To enforce a mechanic's lien in Oklahoma, the contractor must file a statement with the county clerk in the county where the property is located within four months of the last furnished labor or materials. Another type of lien is one that homeowners' associations (HOAs) may place on a property for unpaid dues or assessments. The process for enforcing these liens is typically governed by the HOA's governing documents and state statutes. Oklahoma law requires specific procedures to be followed for a lien to be valid, including proper notice to the property owner and, in some cases, a court judgment. Failure to comply with these procedures can result in an unenforceable lien. It's important for property owners and those seeking to place a lien to understand the specific requirements and timelines set forth by Oklahoma statutes to ensure their rights are protected.