Mechanics Lien Deadlines in New Hampshire
New Hampshire law gives those who furnish labor, professional design services, or materials for a building a lien whose duration and securing by attachment are set by RSA chapter 447.
New Hampshire's mechanics lien law appears in RSA chapter 447, Liens for Labor and Materials. It states who may claim a lien for work on a building, the written notice a claimant working under a contractor or subcontractor must give, the account the claimant must furnish, how long the lien lasts, and how the lien is secured by attachment of the property. The paragraphs below track the operative sections.
Filing and enforcing a mechanics lien in New Hampshire
The lien may be secured by attachment of the property upon which it exists at any time while the lien continues, with the writ and return distinctly expressing that purpose. 1
That attachment has precedence and priority over any construction mortgage. 2
All attaching lien creditors share pro rata in accordance with the amounts of their respective lien judgments in the property attached or in its proceeds. 3
Sources
The lien may be secured by attachment of the property upon which it exists at any time while the lien continues, with the writ and return distinctly expressing that purpose.
The attachment securing the lien has precedence and priority over any construction mortgage.
All attaching lien creditors share pro rata in accordance with the amounts of their respective lien judgments in the property attached or in its proceeds.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a New Hampshire mechanics lien last?
- Under RSA 447:9 the lien created by RSA 447:2 through 447:7 continues for 120 days after the services are performed or the materials, supplies, or other things are furnished.
- How is the lien secured in New Hampshire?
- Under RSA 447:10 the lien may be secured by attachment of the property upon which it exists at any time while the lien continues, with the writ and return distinctly expressing that purpose.
- Does a claimant working under a contractor need to give notice?
- Under RSA 447:5 a claimant contracting with an agent, contractor, or subcontractor of the owner must give notice in writing to the owner or the person having charge of the property that the claimant will claim the lien before performing the labor or furnishing the material for which it is claimed.
Last reviewed 8.4.26
This page is general information about state law, not legal advice. Laws change, and how they apply depends on the facts of your situation.