Frustrated contractors trying to collect for their work often see, mistakenly, mechanics’ liens as their most powerful collection tool. Mechanics’ liens can be used to collect, just as a nail can be driven with a lineman’s pliers, but they are frequently not the best tool for the job. Students will gain a clear understanding of how best to use mechanics’ liens to help them collect, and how to avoid throwing good money after bad. This course is designed to help contractors know when it is best to spend money on a mechanics’ lien, and when other collection tools are a better choice.

Course Outline

• Introduction
• What is a Mechancs’ Lien? 
• Who is entitled to a mechanics’ lien?
• How does a person entitled to a mechanics’ lien protect that right?
• Who should a contractor turn to for the preparation, service, and recording of mechanics’ lien notices and statements?
• When should a mechanics’ lien statement be filed?
• What benefits does a lien claimant receive from a recorded lien statement?
• What does it cost to prepare and record a mechanics’ lien statement, and then use the lien to collect the balance due?
• How are lien waivers used and when are they required?
• What alternatives to mechanics’ liens are available to collect debts?

Learner Objectives

• Learn what is a mechanics’ lien and who is entitled to it
• Identify important deadlines for notice, service, and recording
• Recognize information that should, and should not, be in a Mechanics’ Lien statement
• Correctly identify collection alternatives to Mechanics’ Liens

Testimonials

"Outstanding speaker!" Charles Aspenson, Aspenson Construction LLC

"Great information shared on liens and how they are used. Course was easy to follow and understand." Daniel Sollom, Emerald Construction

"Great course, very good instructor, very convenient. I like topics that are important and this one was!"

Quiz Info

In order to receive continuing education credit(s), you will need to take a 10-question quiz following the course. To pass the quiz, you will need to achieve a score of 70% or higher. If you are unsuccessful, you will have an opportunity to repeat the quiz. Once you have successfully completed the quiz, you can download your continuing education certificate(s) showing the credit(s) that you have earned.

Credit Info

This course has been approved for one hour of MN residential contractor, remodeler and roofer continuing education by the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry and includes the required Business Management credit.

If you are eligible to receive continuing education credits, your information will be electronically reported to the appropriate agency within 3 business days of course completion.

Access Info Your online course is accessible 24/7. The course will be available to you for 180 days from the purchase date.
Questions and Comments Questions and comments related to the curriculum for this course may be submitted to the instructor at education@housingfirstmn.org.