Washington Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
Washington requires many construction professionals to provide a preliminary notice to preserve mechanics lien rights on certain construction projects. Complying with notice requirements and filing deadlines helps protect your right to payment for labor, materials, equipment, and professional services.
Who Must Send a Preliminary Notice?
- Subcontractors
- Material Suppliers
- Equipment Rental Companies
- Labor Providers
- Specialty Trade Contractors
- Architects
- Engineers
- Surveyors
- Landscape Contractors
- Other eligible lien claimants
Who Receives the Notice?
- Property Owner
- General Contractor (when applicable)
- Other parties as required under Washington law
Key Deadlines
Requirement | Deadline |
Preliminary Notice | 60 days after beginning work |
Mechanics Lien Filing | 90 days after last work performed |
Service of Lien | As required under Washington law |
Lien Enforcement | 8 month after recording lien |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Washington require a preliminary notice?
Many claimants are required to provide a preliminary notice depending on their role and the project.
Who typically sends the notice?
Many subcontractors, suppliers, and other parties that do not contract directly with the owner.
Does this apply to residential construction?
Yes.
Does this apply to commercial construction?
Yes.
Can subcontractors file a mechanics lien?
Yes, if statutory requirements are met.
Can material suppliers file a mechanics lien?
Yes.
What happens if I miss a required deadline?
You may lose your mechanics lien rights.
Why should I track lien deadlines?
Washington strictly enforces statutory notice and filing requirements.
Can Caprenos help?
Yes. Caprenos prepares notices, lien documents, and tracks deadlines.
Why use Caprenos?
Professional preparation helps protect your payment rights.
How Caprenos Can Help
Caprenos helps contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, equipment providers, and design professionals prepare Washington preliminary notices, mechanics lien documents, monitor important deadlines, and protect their payment rights throughout Washington.
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.