Pennsylvania Preliminary Notice Guide
A Quick Reference for Contractors, Subcontractors & Material Suppliers
Introduction
Pennsylvania generally does not require a universal preliminary notice, but many projects with a Notice of Commencement require lower-tier parties to file a Notice of Furnishing. Mechanics lien deadlines must also be followed.
Who Must Send a Preliminary Notice?
- Subcontractors
- Material Suppliers
- Equipment Rental Companies
- Labor Providers
- Specialty Trade Contractors
- Architects
- Engineers
- Surveyors
- Landscape Contractors
- Other Design Professionals
Who Receives the Notice?
- Property Owner
- General Contractor
- Other parties as required under Pennsylvania law
Special notes: Owner may elect to require all notices be posted to the State Construction Notices Directory for projects of $1,500,000 or more.
Key Deadlines
Requirement | Deadline |
Notice of Furnishing | Generally within 45 days after first furnishing on applicable projects Prime contractor not required |
Mechanics Lien Filing | Generally within 6 months after completion of claimant’s work |
Service of Lien | Generally within 1 month after filing |
Lien Enforcement | Generally within 2 years after filing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pennsylvania require a preliminary notice?
Only on certain applicable projects.
Who files a Notice of Furnishing?
Many lower-tier parties.
Residential projects?
Yes.
Commercial projects?
Yes.
Can subcontractors file a lien?
Yes.
Can suppliers file a lien?
Yes.
Miss the notice deadline?
It may affect lien rights.
When file a lien?
Generally within 6 months after completion.
Can Caprenos help?
Yes.
Why monitor deadlines?
To protect payment rights.
How Caprenos Can Help
Caprenos assists with Pennsylvania Notice of Furnishing filings, mechanics 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.