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 Wisconsin, 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 suppliers can file against a property if they have not been paid for labor or materials used in improving the property. To enforce a mechanic's lien in Wisconsin, the claimant must file a lien claim with the clerk of circuit court in the county where the property is located within six months from the last date of providing labor or materials. Additionally, the claimant must serve a copy of the lien claim on the property owner within 30 days of filing. Homeowners' associations (HOAs) can also place liens on properties for unpaid dues or assessments. These liens are typically governed by the association's bylaws and state statutes, and they can lead to foreclosure if the homeowner does not pay the outstanding amounts. It's important to note that lien laws are subject to change, and specific procedures must be followed to enforce a lien legally. Property owners and claimants may benefit from consulting with an attorney to understand their rights and obligations under Wisconsin's lien laws.