What to Do If You Receive a Notice of Contest in Florida
In Florida, a construction lien is a powerful tool for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers to secure payment. However, receiving a Notice of Contest of Lien can significantly alter your ability to enforce that lien. This legal document, filed by a property owner, reduces the time you have to act from one year to just 60 days. Failing to respond appropriately can result in the automatic loss of your lien rights.
What Happens If a Notice to Owner (NTO) Is Undelivered or Rejected?
Under Florida’s Construction Lien Law (Chapter 713, Florida Statutes), certain construction professionals must serve a Notice to Owner (NTO) to protect their right to file a lien. This is not optional—missing this requirement can result in losing your lien rights and, ultimately, your ability to collect payment.
Notice to Owner in Florida: When and How to Serve It
If you’re working on a construction project in Florida and don’t have a direct contract with the property owner, Florida law may require you to serve a Notice to Owner (NTO) to preserve your right to file a lien. This requirement, found in Florida Statutes Chapter 713, is strict: missing the deadline or serving it improperly can eliminate your ability to enforce payment—even if the owner knows you’re involved in the project.
Common Mistakes That Invalidate a Construction Lien in Florida
A construction lien is one of the most powerful legal tools available to contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and equipment rental companies to ensure they get paid. But Florida’s Construction Lien Law (Chapter 713, Florida Statutes) imposes strict requirements—one misstep and your lien may be unenforceable.