Colorado Private Time Frames

Step 1: Notice
  • Colorado Law does not require any notice prior to providing material or labor.
  • Prior to furnishing a party other than a principal contractor may serve the Owner a Notice to Owner that places a duty on the owner or its agent to withhold funds to satisfy payment to the noticing party. Notice to Lender may be given requiring disburser (lender) to pay lien claimant directly.
  • Residential – affirmative defense available to owners see speed bumps.
Step 2: Lien
    • Serve Notice of Intent to File a Lien Statement 10 days prior to filing of lien statement.
    • Commercial - File Statement of Lien within 4 months of last furnishing.

                         See Speed Bumps for rental equipment.

    • ResidentialLien period may be reduced to 2 months of last furnishing

                           (Special Rules for One and Two Family Homes & Day Laborers)           

A subcontractor or materialman performing work or furnishing materials on a one or two family home may
have less time than the usual 4 months to file a Statement of Lien. The reduction of time to file applies in
the case of a bona fide purchaser of the dwelling. In other words, if there is a purchaser (or could be a
purchaser) of the home, the Statement of Lien should be filed within 2 months. If the residence is not sold
within the 4 month period after completion, then, a claimant has the normal 4 months to file. However,
caution and prudent practice dictates that a lien on a one or two family dwelling be filed within 2 months.
The lien period is reduced to 2 months for laborers who perform work by day or piece but does not furnish
material

Step 3: Foreclosure
  • Within 6 months of last furnishing of labor or materials or after the completion of construction, whichever is later.