California Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
California requires most subcontractors and suppliers to serve a 20-Day Preliminary Notice.
Who Must Send a Preliminary Notice?
- Subcontractors
- Material Suppliers
- Equipment Rental Companies
- Labor Providers
- Architects
- Engineers
- Surveyors
Who Receives the Notice?
- Property Owner
- Direct Contractor
- Construction Lender
Key Deadlines
Requirement | Deadline |
20-Day Notice | Within 20 days after first furnishing |
Late Notice | Protects prior 20 days and future work |
Mechanics Lien | 90 days after completion unless notice recorded |
Lien Enforcement | 90 days after recording |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is notice required?
Yes.
What is it?
A statutory preliminary notice.
Is it a lien?
No.
Late notice?
Limits protection.
Residential?
Yes.
Commercial?
Yes.
Suppliers?
Must generally serve notice.
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.