Maryland mechanics liens

Who and what this applies to

Private-property mechanics liens under Maryland Real Property Title 9, subtitle 1.

Thresholds and scope

New building construction is covered; repairs, rebuilding or improvements require at least 15% of building value under section 9-102(a).

The rules

• Section 9-102 covers the specified labor, materials, services and equipment without a minimum debt amount; transfer to a bona fide purchaser before lien establishment can defeat the lien, and the petition gives purchaser notice. Source
• A subcontractor gives the statutory notice of intention within 120 days after work or materials. For an owner’s new single-family residence on the owner’s land, the notice must also precede full payment to the contractor and the lien cannot exceed the balance owed at notice. Source
• The claimant files the petition, affidavit and supporting documents in the circuit court where any part of the land lies within 180 days after the work is finished or materials furnished. Source

Primary sources

• Md. Real Property §9-102
• Md. Real Property §9-104
• Md. Real Property §9-105

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

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