Contesting a Mechanic's Lien in Florida

Under Florida law, filing a statutory Notice of Contest of Lien can defend property against a lien. See 713.22 Fla. Stat (2016).

A mechanic's lien, when filed against property, is valid for one year after the recording date. ( 713.22(1)). The lienor can extend that time past one year by filing a lawsuit to enforce the lien prior to its expiration. When a lien is recorded, however, a property owner may file a Notice of Contest of Lien within the one-year period to dispute the lien's validity. This Notice includes the lienor's name and address, details about the recorded lien, the owner's name, and the signing date. It should also meet all state and local formatting requirements for documents submitted for recording.

Once the notice is recorded, the clerk serves it on the lienor at the address in the lien, putting the lienor on notice that he or she must file a lawsuit to enforce the lien within 60 days. This can shorten the enforceability period because once the lienor receives the Notice of Contest of Lien. If the lienor fails to file a lawsuit within the shortened timeframe, it renders the lien invalid.

Each case is unique, so contact an attorney for more information about contesting a lien or other questions about Florida's Construction Lien Law.

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

What Others Like You Are Saying

— Sandra G.

"We were referred to the site by banking friend. It does take time to read through and figure out wha…"

— fran g.

"To hard for me. But with that being said it's a great option for most people."

— Deborah V.

"Helpful and informative."

— Mary D.

"Gift Deed is exactly what was required. Thank you!"

— Mary Z.

"Awesome forms, easy to complete and print."

Common Uses for Notice of Contest of Lien

Notify a general contractor of unpaid subcontractor invoices
Document a change order that affects the scope of a project
Protect your right to payment for home improvement work
Secure payment for materials supplied to a construction project
Provide required pre-lien notice before filing a claim
File a lien to prevent property sale until payment is received
Document consent of the property owner for improvements

Compare other Florida deed forms and documents

Quitclaim Deed Gift Deed Enhanced Life Estate Deed Quitclaim Ladybird Deed Warranty Deed Enhanced Life Estate Deed Ladybird Warranty Deed Special Warranty Deed Grant Deed Correction Deed Easement Deed Termination, Cancellation of Easement / Right of Way Trustees Deed Disclaimer of Interest Affidavit of Death Certificate Decedent Interest in Homestead Affidavit Personal Representative Deed (Testate) Personal Representative Deed (Intestate) Certificate of Trust Durable Limited Power of Attorney for Real Estate Durable Power of Attorney Mortgage Instrument and Promissory Note Mortgage with Assignment of Rents and Promissory Note Satisfaction of Mortgage Agreement for Deed Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Full Release of Memorandum and Notice of Agreement Notice of Commencement Notice to Owner Final Payment Affidavit Claim of Lien Notice to Contractor Notice of Termination Notice of Nonpayment Notice of Contest of Claim Against Payment Bond Unconditional Waiver and Release of Lien upon Progress Payment Conditional Waiver and Release of Lien upon Progress Payment Unconditional Waiver upon Final Payment Conditional Waiver and Release of Lien upon Final Payment Request for a Sworn Statement of Account Notice of Lien Prohibition Lis Pendens Release of Lis Pendens

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our notice of contest of lien forms are specifically formatted for each county in Florida.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

Back to Florida Forms