Changes to Mechanics’ Lien Law of 1963 You Should Know About.

March 15, 2017 • By Eric Frey

Effective January 1, 2017,  the PA Department of General Services has made changes to the PA Mechancis’ Lien Law, 49 Pa.C.S.A. § 101, et seq.  A new website known as the State Construction Notices Directory (“Directory”) has been implemented by the Department to streamline the way in which notices are given on non-residential construction projects valued at $1,500,000 or more. Pursuant to the changes owners, contractors, subcontractors and material suppliers must adhere to new filing requirements if they plan to use the Directory.

The change in the law allows an owner or the owner’s authorized contractor to file a Notice of Commencement (“NOC”) with the Directory before any work or materials are supplied to a project.  The NOC is a voluntary filing.  If such a filing is made, then contractors, subcontractors and materialmen must file a Notice of Furnishing (“NOF”) with the Directory within 45 days of beginning work or supplying materials to the project.  Failure to file the NOF may result in the subcontractor/materialman forfeiting the right to file a mechanics’ lien claim.

Access the Directory here.