Recording a construction lien in Florida is a powerful tool—but it’s only the first step. Many contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers mistakenly believe that simply recording a lien will result in payment. In reality, a lien is a legal claim against the property, but you must still take enforcement steps to actually get paid.
At Florida Lien Machine, we don’t just prepare and record liens. We help you enforce them. Whether through demand letters, pre-suit pressure, or litigation, we work to turn your lien into cash. Florida Lien Machine is backed by Andrew Douglas, P.A., a trusted Florida construction attorney helping contractors and suppliers protect their legal and financial rights.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to what happens after your lien is recorded—and how to collect what you’re owed.
Step 1: Consider Serving a Notice of Intent to Foreclose
While not legally required in Florida, a Notice of Intent to Foreclose functions as a formal demand letter to the property owner and other responsible parties. It puts the property owner, general contractor, and title companies on notice that you plan to take legal action if you aren’t paid.
Why send one?
- It often prompts payment without needing to file suit.
- It creates a paper trail that can help in litigation.
- It may trigger a response from the owner’s title insurer or lender.
At Florida Lien Machine, we can prepare and serve this demand-backed notice for you, backed by a Florida construction attorney.
Step 2: File a Lien Foreclosure Lawsuit
If the lien alone doesn’t result in payment, you must file a lawsuit to foreclose the lien. This lawsuit is similar to a mortgage foreclosure and seeks to force the sale of the property to satisfy your claim.
Key things to know:
- Deadline: You must file within 1 year of recording the lien (unless a Notice of Contest shortens it to 60 days).
- Parties to sue: Typically includes the property owner, general contractor, and possibly others.
- Venue: File in the Florida county where the property is located.
- Relief: You can seek foreclosure, interest, attorneys’ fees, and costs.
Important: If your lien contains false information or exceeds the actual amount owed, you may face a counterclaim for a fraudulent lien. We ensure your lien is accurate and enforceable before moving forward.
Step 3: Pursue Judgment Collection
Even after winning a lien foreclosure case, you still need to collect the money. If the property is not sold (or the owner satisfies the lien before sale), you may have to take further steps to recover funds.
Collection options include:
- Wage garnishment (for individuals)
- Bank account or receivables garnishment
- Levy on assets
- Settlements or payment plans
Our legal team ensures you don’t stop at the judgment—we help you pursue actual payment.
Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Collection Efforts
- Waiting too long to enforce your lien
- Relying on defective liens that weren’t properly served or recorded
- Failing to identify the proper owner or contracting party
- Assuming the lien will resolve itself without action
Florida Lien Machine ensures compliance at every step—from lien recording to enforcement and litigation.
Why Use Florida Lien Machine?
Florida Lien Machine is powered by Andrew Douglas, P.A., an experienced Florida construction attorney who understands the deadlines, defenses, and strategies needed to collect on construction liens.
We provide:
- Attorney-prepared demand letters
- Verified lien foreclosures
- Representation in court or settlement negotiations
- Strategic enforcement options if payment isn’t made voluntarily
Whether you’re a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier, we help you convert your lien rights into real payment.
Ready to Enforce Your Lien?
Don’t let your recorded lien expire without action. If you’re still unpaid after recording your lien, let Florida Lien Machine take over. From aggressive pre-suit demands to full lien foreclosure lawsuits, we help Florida contractors get paid.
Visit FloridaLienMachine.com or learn more about our construction law services at Andrew Douglas, P.A., your trusted Florida construction attorney.
Florida Lien Machine — Your Partner in Getting Paid.