Preliminary Lien Notices

What It Is

A Preliminary Notice (also called a Pre-Lien Notice) is a statutory notice that preserves your right to file a Mechanics Lien or Stop Notice if you are not paid. In California, any contractor, subcontractor, or supplier who does not have a direct contract with the property owner must serve a Preliminary Notice within 20 days of first furnishing labor, services, equipment, or materials.

When to Use It

Send a Preliminary Notice at the very start of every job — ideally before or on the day you first provide labor or materials. California law allows a late notice to be served, but it will only protect work performed within the 20 days before service, putting earlier work at risk. The California Contractors State License Board can fine contractors who fail to send required notices.

How Cover Me Handles It

Cover Me researches your project information by contacting the county recorder, assessor, and relevant agencies to verify the property owner, direct contractor, and lender. Once confirmed, a department supervisor reviews the document for accuracy. We then send the notice by certified mail to all required parties — the property owner, general contractor, and construction lender — and provide you a copy with USPS tracking the same day it is mailed.

What's Included

• Private works notice (Civil Code § 8200) and public works notice (Civil Code § 9300) — Cover Me has separate statutory forms for each track
• Research and verification of owner, GC, and lender information
• Certified mail to all required parties
• Proof of Service declaration
• Same-day email copy with USPS tracking number
• All records retained for 3 years

Commonly Asked Questions