Homeowner guide
Mechanics' liens and lien waivers in Colorado
General info only. Check with a licensed pro and your local building department.
How unpaid subs and suppliers can put a lien on your house, and how lien waivers protect you.
| Topic | What the source says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| What a lien is | A subcontractor, vendor or supplier who is not paid in full may be entitled to place a lien on your property. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
| Time limit | The AG says a mechanic's lien is enforceable only if a lawsuit is filed within 6 months after the last work is done. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
| Your defense | You may have an affirmative defense if you paid your contractor and met your contract obligations. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
| Statute deadlines | C.R.S. 38-22-109: a notice of intent to file a lien must be served at least 10 days before filing; most lien statements must be filed within 4 months after the claimant's last labor or materials (2 months after completion for labor by the day or piece). C.R.S. 38-22-110: the lien ends after 6 months unless a lawsuit is started and a notice of it is recorded. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
| Lien waivers | Require your contractor to get lien waivers from subs and suppliers on major projects. Talk to an attorney before signing a contract. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
| Trust funds | Stop Fraud Colorado lists failing to pay subcontractors or set aside money for them as contractor fraud. | Official page checked 2026-10-30 |
Not confirmed yet
- Unknown Exact deadline for your situation — the statute has exceptions (C.R.S. 38-22-109(10), (11)); see our lien deadline dates tool and talk to an attorney.
- Unknown Official Colorado lien waiver form — none found on these pages.
Checked 2026-10-30. General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change — confirm with the source. Report an error.