Because public property generally cannot be subjected to a mechanics lien, unpaid subcontractors on a California public works project are protected primarily by:
Explanation
Public property cannot be sold to satisfy a private claim, so no mechanics lien attaches to it. The substitutes are the direct contractor's payment bond under Civil Code §9550 and the stop payment notice against undisbursed public funds under Civil Code §9352. A notice of non-responsibility is a private-works device by which an owner disclaims work ordered by a tenant; it protects the owner and pays nobody. Builder's risk insures the work against physical loss and answers no invoice.
Law Reference: Civil Code §9550; §9352This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
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