Alabama mechanic's liens

Who and what this applies to

Private real-property mechanics’ liens under Alabama Code §§35-11-210 through 35-11-221; the claimant’s role controls filing and notice obligations.

The rules

• File a verified lien statement with the probate judge in the property county, stating the credited amount, identifying the property and naming its owner, as required by §35-11-213. Source
• Section 35-11-215 requires original contractors to file within six months, journeymen and day laborers within 30 days, and other claimants within four months after the last covered labor or furnishing. Source
• Before filing, claimants other than the original contractor must give the owner the written amount, basis and debtor notice under §35-11-218; that section excepts materials already covered by the advance notice in §35-11-210. Source
• Section 35-11-221 generally requires enforcement within six months after maturity of the entire secured debt, subject to exceptions in the division. Source

Primary sources

• Ala. Code §35-11-213
• Ala. Code §35-11-215
• Ala. Code §35-11-218
• Ala. Code §35-11-221

Sources reviewed 2026-09-30. This guide covers the projects and rules stated above.

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