How to File a Labor Lien in Oklahoma

Every state, including Oklahoma, has a law allowing contractors to place a lien against the property they are working on to secure payment for services rendered. This legal practice is referred to as a "construction lien," "labor lien" or a "mechanic's lien." Filing for a labor lien is a relatively straight-forward process.

Instructions

1

Prepare a pre-lien notice. The notice must say it is a pre-lien notice and contain the following information: your name, address and telephone number; the date(s) you supplied labor, materials or other services to the project plus a general description for each; the name and last-known address of the owner; the address, legal description or location of the property where you performed the work; and the amount owed. You must also sign the notice.

2

Serve the owner of the property with the pre-lien notice. National Lien Law recommends serving the notice by certified mail with a return receipt requested. You must do this before you file the lien and also within 75 days of supplying work or materials. Failure to provide pre-lien notice makes the lien invalid and unenforceable.

3

File the lien at the county clerk's office in the county of the project location. Some counties will charge an administrative or processing fee.