Notice to owner
A notice to owner is a written notice that a subcontractor or supplier sends a property owner early in a project, saying who they are and what they're providing, so they keep the right to file a lien later.
Updated October 13, 2026 · 1 min read
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Why it exists
An owner usually only deals with the general contractor. A notice to owner tells them who else is on the job and may claim a mechanics lien if they aren't paid, so the owner can make sure payments reach everyone, often by collecting lien waivers.
Florida's rule, as an example
Florida uses the term "notice to owner." Under its statute, all lienors except laborers must serve it before starting or no later than 45 days after they start furnishing labor, services or materials. Failing to serve it, or serving it late, is a complete defense to enforcing the lien.
Other states call a similar step a preliminary notice or notice of furnishing, with their own deadlines and forms, and some don't require one. Check your state's lien law, or a construction attorney, before you rely on the deadline.
Sources
- Florida Statutes § 713.06, notice to owner · leg.state.fl.us