Lien Waiver vs. Lien Release

Waiving lien rights or releasing a lien… it can be easy to mix up these concepts. But when it comes to lien rights, it is extremely important to understand the distinctions. However, lien waivers and lien releases are completely different. Let’s repeat that just so there’s no confusion:

Lien Waivers and Lien Releases are 2 completely different documents!

What follows is a super-simple breakdown of the 2 document types.

What is a Lien Waiver?

A lien waiver is used to waive lien rights. A lien waiver happens before a lien is actually filed. The party submitting a lien waiver is stating that they waive the right to lien against the project.

Generally, the party making payment will request that a subcontractor, supplier, or another party they have hired, sign a lien waiver in exchange for payment.

Lien waivers work a lot like receipts, and lien rights are waived for the amount of money set forth in the waiver. For example, a party receives $1000 in payment, and then they waive $1000 of lien rights.

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Further Reading on Lien Waivers:

The Ultimate Guide to Lien Waivers

What is a Lien Release (aka Lien Cancellation)?

A lien release is used to cancel a lien that has already been filed. It’s most often used to release a lien claim after a lien claimant receives payment. This action releases the claim of lien from the property in question. A lien release is also known as a release of lien, cancellation of lien, or a lien cancellation.

When to File a Lien Release

Most states strictly require that the lien claimant formally release the lien after payment has been received. Even if it is not required by your state, it is best practice to release the lien if you don’t intend to enforce your claim as soon as payment clears. You can file a lien release (lien cancellation) with Levelset fast here.

The deadlines for releasing a lien vary by state. Most states require that liens are released within 10-30 days of satisfaction or the date written request for release was received. Of course, there are exceptions. Maine provides a longer acceptable timeframe (60 days from satisfaction), while Washington’s statute says that a lien release is due immediately upon satisfaction or written request.

Further Reading on Lien Releases:

Do You Have to Cancel a Mechanics Lien, or Will It Expire?

Lien Waiver vs Lien Release: What's the Difference?
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Lien Waiver vs Lien Release: What's the Difference?
Lien waivers and lien releases are completely different documents (even though they are often confused by the construction industry). Read this post to learn when and how to use each type of document.
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