Kentucky mechanics' liens: the 75/120-day notice, six months to file and 12 months to sue

A summary of KRS Chapter 376, not legal advice.

Notice to the owner (subs and suppliers)

Under KRS 376.010, a person who did not contract directly with the owner (or the owner's agent or lessee) acquires no lien unless it notifies the owner in writing of its intention to hold the property liable and the amount, within 75 days after the last labor or material is furnished on claims under $1,000, and within 120 days on claims over $1,000. For an owner-occupied single- or double-family dwelling, the notice must be given not more than 75 days after the last item is furnished.

File the lien statement within six months

Under KRS 376.080, the lien is dissolved unless the claimant, within six months after it stops working or furnishing materials, files a statement in the county clerk's office of the county where the improvement is located. The statement must give the amount due, a property description, the owner's name if known and whether the work was under contract with the owner, a contractor or a subcontractor. A copy must be mailed to the owner.

Sue within 12 months

Under KRS 376.090, the lien is dissolved unless an action to enforce it is brought within 12 months from the day the statement was filed.

Summary for general information, reviewed 2026-10-30. Not legal advice; check the source before relying on a deadline or threshold.