Construction Lien Protection for Owners & General Contractors
Owner Responsibilities Under Florida Law
Under Chapter 713, Florida Statutes, property owners and general contractors have specific obligations designed to protect against improper liens. These include:
- Serving and tracking Notices to Owner and Notices of Commencement
- Following proper payment procedures to ensure funds reach lower-tier subcontractors and suppliers
- Maintaining accurate payment records and releases of lien
- Using retainage practices to secure compliance and completion
Failure to follow these steps can expose owners to double payment risks or prevent title clearance. Bitman Law helps ensure compliance with Florida’s lien statutes so your property remains protected.
Defending Against Invalid or Inflated Liens
Not every lien filed is valid. Our Florida construction lien defense attorneys help owners and GCs contest and discharge liens that are inflated, expired, or improperly filed.
We assist clients in:
- Contesting a lien formally to shorten the enforcement period to 60 days
- Bonding off liens to clear the title while disputes are resolved
- Seeking discharge of fraudulent or overstated liens through litigation
- Negotiating lien releases once payment verification or settlements are reached
Whether you’re facing an owner mechanic’s lien in Florida or defending a large commercial claim, Bitman Law ensures your interests are protected from every angle.
How Bitman Law Protects Owners & General Contractors
Our firm provides both defensive and preventive strategies for GC lien protection in Florida, helping clients minimize risk before and after disputes arise.
Our services include:
- Reviewing contracts and payment structures to identify lien exposure points
- Defending against lien foreclosure actions and related claims
- Clearing title quickly through lien release, bonding, or court discharge
- Advising on GC risk management and lien compliance protocols
Request a Lien Defense Review
If you’re facing a construction lien defense issue as an owner or GC in Florida, or want to strengthen your GC lien protection plan, we can help.
Call 844-248-6265 or contact us online for a free consultation with an experienced Florida construction lien attorney.
FAQs for Owners & General Contractors
Can I be liable if my subcontractor fails to pay a supplier?
Yes. Even if you’ve paid your general contractor, an unpaid subcontractor or supplier may still file a lien if proper notices and releases weren’t managed. Our attorneys can audit and correct notice compliance to prevent liability.
How can I remove a lien from my property?
You can often bond off a lien or file a Notice of Contest of Lien to accelerate the removal process. Bitman Law assists with both to help clear the title quickly.
What steps can GCs take to avoid lien disputes?
Implement clear GC risk management and lien procedures, verify payment down the chain, and ensure subcontractors serve timely notices. Our team can draft custom lien management protocols for your projects.
