Updated Nov 11, 2025 | Private Projects: Ala. Code § 35-11-210, 218
Material suppliers in Alabama have the right to secure unpaid work through a mechanics lien. When properly filed, a lien attaches to the improved property and creates a public record of the debt. This often prompts resolution, as property owners typically seek to clear any claims before refinancing, selling, or securing further investment.
Alabama recognizes two types of lien filings: the Full Price Lien and the Unpaid Balance Lien. The type of lien a supplier may file depends on preliminary notice service timing. Without filing a preliminary notice, the supplier loses all lien rights. Suppliers to sub-subcontractors and suppliers to suppliers do not have lien rights in Alabama.
This guide outlines the differences between these liens, who is eligible to file, and the required steps to preserve and enforce lien rights.
Alabama Full Price Lien vs. Unpaid Balance Lien
The key difference between these two lien types is the amount that may be recovered.
Full Price Lien
Full price liens allow a claimant to recover the full value of the labor or materials furnished, regardless of whether the owner has already disbursed payment to the general contractor. Material suppliers must serve a pre-work Notice to Owner/Notice of Furnishing to retain full price lien rights.
Unpaid Balance Lien
Unpaid balance liens limit the claim to the amount the property owner still owes to the party that hired the claimant at the time notice is given.
Example:
If a supplier provides $50,000 in materials and the owner has already paid $30,000 to the general contractor, the Unpaid Balance Lien is limited to $20,000. However, if the supplier served a pre-work notice to owner, a Full Price Lien may allow recovery of the entire $50,000.
When to File a Mechanics Lien in Alabama
To secure a lien, material suppliers must file a sworn, written statement in the county probate judge’s office where the property is located within 4 months of last delivery. It must contain the information required by Alabama law. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on ensuring a valid lien filing.
1. Prepare the Mechanics Lien Form
Section 35-11-213 of the Alabama code describes what the lien must contain in order to be valid.
This sworn, written statement must include the demand amount after credits, a description of the property sufficient for identification (house number, street, and city/town name are sufficient if applicable), and the owner’s name. The lien claim must be notarized.
Here’s a sample mechanics lien form for Alabama:
2. Record the Lien
File the completed, notarized lien in the office of the judge of probate in the county where the project is located.
3. Enforcing the Lien
If payment is not made, claimants must enforce the lien by filing suit in state court within 6 months of contractual due date/debt maturity.
Lien Release: If payment is received, the claimant must file a satisfaction or release of lien within 30 days of a written request from the property owner.
Lien Best Practices for Material Suppliers in AL
Serve Preliminary Notices Without Delay
Serve the Pre-Work Notice to Owner or Notice of Furnishing before the first delivery of materials or start of work to get full priced lien rights. If unable to serve a notice of furnishing, serve a notice of lien as soon as possible, well in advance of filing the lien to maximize lien protection.
Do Not Overstate the Claim
Lien amounts should include only the value of labor or materials furnished. Alabama law does not permit adding attorney’s fees, interest, or other lien-related costs to the claim amount.