Michigan Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
Michigan does not require a universal preliminary notice before work begins on every private construction project. However, Michigan’s Construction Lien Act requires many subcontractors, material suppliers, labor providers, and design professionals to serve a Notice of Furnishing in order to preserve their mechanics lien rights.
The Notice of Furnishing is not a lien and does not indicate that payment problems exist. Instead, it informs the property owner and other interested parties that you are providing labor, materials, equipment, or professional services to the project and may have lien rights if payment is not received.
Whether you’re working on a residential home, commercial building, or industrial project, understanding Michigan’s notice requirements is essential to protecting your right to payment.
Who Must Send a Preliminary Notice/Notice of furnishing?
- Subcontractors
- Material Suppliers
- Equipment Rental Companies
- Labor Providers
- Specialty Trade Contractors
- Architects
- Engineers
- Surveyors
- Landscape Contractors
- Other Design Professionals
General contractors who contract directly with the property owner generally are not required to serve a Notice of Furnishing.
Who Receives the Notice?
When required, the Michigan Notice of Furnishing is generally served upon:
- Property Owner
- General Contractor
- Designee listed on the Notice of Commencement (when applicable)
Reviewing the project’s Notice of Commencement helps determine the proper recipient.
Key Deadlines
Requirement | Deadline |
Notice of Furnishing | Generally within 20 days after first furnishing labor, materials, or services Prime contractor – not required |
Mechanics Lien Recording | Generally within 90 days after last furnishing labor, materials, or services |
Copy of Recorded Lien | Generally served shortly after recording as required by law |
Lien Enforcement | Generally within 1 year after recording the lien |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan require a preliminary notice?
Yes. Many subcontractors, suppliers, and other parties who do not contract directly with the property owner must serve a Notice of Furnishing.
What is a Notice of Furnishing?
It informs the property owner and other required parties that you are furnishing labor, materials, equipment, or professional services.
Who must send a Notice of Furnishing?
Generally subcontractors, suppliers, equipment providers, labor providers, and many design professionals.
Who receives the Notice of Furnishing?
The property owner, general contractor, and the designee listed in the Notice of Commencement.
Does this apply to residential construction?
Yes.
Does this apply to commercial construction?
Yes.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Missing the deadline may reduce or eliminate your mechanics lien rights for work performed before notice was served.
When must a mechanics lien be recorded?
Generally within 90 days after your last furnishing.
Can Caprenos prepare my Michigan Notice of Furnishing?
Yes.
Why should I serve my Notice promptly?
It helps preserve lien rights and reduce payment disputes.
How Caprenos Can Help
Michigan’s Construction Lien Act contains important notice requirements and strict filing deadlines. Caprenos helps contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, equipment providers, and design professionals prepare Michigan Notice of Furnishing documents, monitor statutory deadlines, and protect their payment rights throughout Michigan.
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.