How to Prevent Mechanic Liens

1). Search the Internet for the "contractor licensing board" in your state. Locate the "lien waiver and release" page. Download the mechanic's lien waiver and release forms from the website. If your state does not offer a downloadable form, you can search the Internet for "lien waiver and release" to download the forms.
2). Write your name in the space provided on the lien waiver and release form. Fill in the address where the work was performed. Identify the contractor by name or company name. Specify the amount of the payment.
3). Specify the time period in which the work was performed. List specifically the last day of work covered by the payment. Sometimes, you will pay the contractor in installments as the job progresses. The lien waiver and release form must clearly indicate the work your payment covers.
4). Present the lien waiver and release form to the contractor. Make the contractor sign and date the form. Keep the lien release in a safe place. The lien waiver and release is proof of payment that is admissible in court to prevent a mechanic's lien.