Iowa Private Time Frames


Step 1: Notice
  • CommercialServe prime contractor or owner-builder within 30 days from first furnishing labor or material.
    • Notice is not required when selling directly to the prime contractor.

Residential Construction:  ANY project involving a single family or two family dwelling, or a condominium.

  • Residential (Prime Contractor)Register Notice of Commencement in the state’s Mechanic’s Notice and Lien Registry (MNLR) within 10 days of commencement of the project.
  • Residential (Subcontractor/Supplier)Serve owner and register Preliminary Notice in the state’s MNLR as soon as possible to trap funds.  When a NOC is not registered by Owner or Prime Subcontractor/Supplier must post NOC then post preliminary notice to have lien rights. 

Step 2: Lien
  • File (effective 1/1/13 Register in the state MLBR) 90 days of last furnishing labor, material or services. Failure to file within the 90 days may, however, not defeat the lien. See Speed Bumps.

Step 3: Foreclosure
  • Within 2 years from the expiration of 90 days from filing the claim. The owner may serve a demand that suit be filed within 30 days.