Rhode Island Mechanic Lien Filing Deadlines

Commercial Projects — 120-Day Filing Deadline

For commercial construction projects in Rhode Island, all claimants must record a Notice of Intention to file a mechanic lien within 120 days of the date of completion of the project.

The 120-day deadline is measured from the completion date, not from the date of last furnishing. Claimants should carefully determine the official completion date to ensure timely filing.

Residential Projects — 200-Day Filing Deadline

For residential construction projects, all claimants have an extended deadline of 200 days from the date of completion to record the Notice of Intention to file a mechanic lien.

The longer residential deadline provides additional time for claimants, but the project must be correctly classified as residential at the outset. Mixed-use projects may present classification challenges.

Notice of Intention Content Requirements

The Notice of Intention must include the amount claimed, a description of the property, the name of the property owner, and a description of the labor or materials furnished. It must be recorded in the land evidence records of the city or town where the property is located.

Accuracy in the property description and claimed amount is essential. An improperly prepared Notice of Intention may be challenged and potentially invalidated.

Prerequisite: Notice to Owner for Subs/Suppliers

Subcontractors and suppliers must have served their notice to the property owner within 60 days of first furnishing as a prerequisite to recording a valid Notice of Intention. Even if the filing deadline is met, failure to serve the preliminary notice may invalidate the mechanic lien claim.