Is an intent to lien required before starting residential work in Rhode Island?

Full question:

Must a contractor issue an Intent to Lien before starting a residential job in RI?

  • Category: Contractors
  • Subcategory: Construction Liens
  • Date:
  • State: Rhode Island

Answer:

No, a contractor is not required to issue an intent to lien before starting a residential job in Rhode Island. While serving an intent to lien is allowed before work begins, it is not mandatory. According to Rhode Island law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-28-4), any liens claimed under specific sections will be void unless the claimant mails a notice of intention to claim the lien within two hundred days after the work is done or materials are provided. This notice must be sent via prepaid registered or certified mail to the property owner or lessee, and a copy must be filed in the local land evidence records.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

No, a contractor does not need a formal contract to file a lien in Rhode Island. However, having a written contract can help clarify the terms of the work and protect both parties. The key requirement for filing a lien is to provide a notice of intention to claim the lien within two hundred days after completing the work or providing materials, as per Rhode Island law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-28-4). This notice must be sent to the property owner and filed in local records. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*