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75 Claremont Road, Bernardsville, New Jersey 07924

Effective New Jersey Lawyer Advocates for Clients in Construction Lien Claims

Bernardsville attorney has decades of experience resolving construction disputes

When you are not paid for work performed or materials supplied on a New Jersey building project, bringing a construction lien claim against the property may help you secure payment. At Laurie Rush-Masuret, P.A., in Bernardsville, our attorney has nearly four decades of experience representing clients in filing and enforcing lien claims. Additionally, we defend property owners, developers and contractors who seek to vacate or settle liens filed against them. You can rely on our hardworking attorney to provide assertive advocacy in support of your interests.

What does a construction lien do?

A construction lien provides contractors and suppliers with a legal interest in a property. When a lien is attached to a property, it restricts the owner’s ability to sell, refinance or borrow against the property. In some cases, an unpaid lien can result in foreclosures. The amount of a lien cannot be more than the amount of money owed for construction services or supplies. Construction liens can be placed on both commercial and residential properties in New Jersey, but there are different filing requirements depending upon the type of property. The requirements for bringing a lien are very complex and if a contractor or supplier violates them, they may be in legal jeopardy themselves. If you have not been paid for work you have performed or materials you have provided to improve a property, our attorney can advise you about how a construction lien may benefit your situation.

Who can file a construction lien claim in New Jersey?

Contractors and suppliers who perform work, supply materials or provide equipment under signed contracts may be able to file construction lien claims for nonpayment. These parties could include:

  • Prime contractors
  • Subcontractors
  • Tradespeople
  • Construction managers
  • Licensed professionals such as architects, engineers and surveyors
  • Equipment and materials suppliers

Under the state’s three-tiered system, construction lien claims are treated differently depending on the relationship between the parties. For example, the first tier includes prime contractors, architects and engineers who have contracts with property owners. Our law firm can counsel you about whether you are in one of the three tiers and have a legal right to file a construction lien claim.

What are defenses against construction lien claims?

There are a variety of possible defenses against construction lien claims. Here are some of them:

  • Not meeting deadline requirements for filing a lien claim
  • Lacking a written and signed contract between the parties
  • Violating the specific procedures for filing the lien claim
  • Overstating how much money is owed

If you have had a construction lien claim filed against you, we will examine the facts involved to develop a defense strategy.

Contact a seasoned New Jersey construction attorney who will stand up for your interests

At Laurie Rush-Masuret, P.A., in Bernardsville, clients benefit from an attorney with more than 35 years of experience successfully assisting New Jersey contractors, suppliers, developers and owners in property disputes, including lien claims. Call our firm at 908-953-0042 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.