Ohio Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
Ohio generally does not require a universal preliminary notice before work begins on private construction projects. Contractors and suppliers must comply with Ohio’s mechanics lien filing deadlines to preserve payment rights.
Who Must Send a Preliminary Notice?
Ohio generally does not require a traditional preliminary notice. The following parties may have mechanics lien rights:
- Subcontractors
- Material Suppliers
- Equipment Rental Companies
- Labor Providers
- Specialty Trade Contractors
- Architects
- Engineers
- Surveyors
- Landscape Contractors
Who Receives the Notice?
- Property Owner
- County Recorder
- Other parties as required under Ohio law
Key Deadlines
Requirement | Deadline |
Preliminary Notice | 21 days after commencing work, prime contractor – not required |
Mechanics Lien Filing | 75 days residential; 120 days commercial |
Service of Lien | Serve a recorded lien copy on owner Generally within 30 days after filing |
Lien Enforcement | Generally within 6 years after filing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ohio require a preliminary notice?
Subcontractors and suppliers without a direct contract with the property owner. Not required if the owner failed to file a Notice of Commencement.
Can subcontractors file a lien?
Yes.
Can suppliers file a lien?
Yes.
Residential projects?
Yes.
Commercial projects?
Yes.
When file a lien?
75 days residential; 120 days commercial.
Miss deadline?
You may lose lien rights.
Do general contractors have lien rights?
Yes.
Can Caprenos help?
Yes.
Why monitor deadlines?
To protect payment rights.
How Caprenos Can Help
Caprenos assists with Ohio lien documents 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.