Arizona Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
Arizona requires most subcontractors and suppliers to serve a 20-Day Preliminary Notice to preserve mechanics lien rights.
Who Must Serve the Preliminary 20-Day Notice?
The following parties must serve the Arizona Preliminary 20-Day Mechanic Lien Notice on private projects:
- Original contractors (general contractors, engineers, surveyors, architects) — serve the owner, construction lender, and person contracted with within 20 days of first performance (§33-992.01)
- Subcontractors — serve the owner, contractor, construction lender, and person contracted with within 20 days of first performance
- Materialmen and suppliers — serve the same parties within 20 days of first furnishing materials
- No additional preliminary notices beyond the 20-day notice are required for original contractors on private works
Who Receives the Notice?
- Property Owner
- Original Contractor
- Construction Lender
- Subcontractor
- Lessee if applicable
Key Deadlines
| Requirement | Deadline |
| 20-Day Preliminary Notice | Within 20 days after first furnishing |
| Mechanics Lien | 120 days after completion if the owner records a formal Notice of Completion the deadline is cut to 60 days. |
| Lien Enforcement | 6 months after recording |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arizona require notice?
Yes.
What is the 20-Day Notice?
A statutory preliminary notice.
Who receives it?
Owner, contractor, lender. Subcontractor, lessee if applicable
Residential?
Yes.
Commercial?
Yes.
Can suppliers lien?
Yes if compliant.
Can Caprenos help?
Yes.
How Caprenos Can Help
Caprenos assists contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and construction professionals with preliminary notice preparation and deadline tracking.
Disclaimer: All timelines, deadlines, and legal requirements provided are for informational purposes only, may vary based on applicable law and project-specific circumstances, and should always be confirmed with a qualified attorney.