Insurance & LiensQuestion 1475 of 1632
After recording a mechanics lien, within what period must the claimant file a lawsuit (action) to foreclose the lien, or the lien becomes unenforceable?
a.Within 30 days of recording
b.Within 90 days after recording of the lien
c.Within 60 days of recording
d.Within 6 months, but only if the owner objects
Explanation
Civil Code §8460 requires the claimant to commence an action to foreclose the mechanics lien within 90 days after recording. If no suit is filed in time (absent a recorded extension), the lien expires and is unenforceable.
Law Reference: Civ. Code §8460This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 1632 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete CSLB Law & Business guide — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- Which claimant is generally NOT required to serve a preliminary notice to preserve a mechanics lien?
- A direct contractor who contracted directly with the owner on a private residential project generally must serve a preliminary notice on which party, if any?
- A payment dispute is resolved and the claimant has been paid. What does it record to clear the mechanics lien from the property?
- A 'stop payment notice' (formerly 'stop notice') is a remedy that allows an unpaid claimant to reach:
- On a private work with a construction lender, for a stop payment notice to bind the LENDER to withhold funds, the claimant generally must:
- On a private commercial project the direct contractor furnishes a payment bond. Its primary purpose is to:
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass team · Verified against California CSLB Contractor License Law & Business Exam · How we review
Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)