For many subcontractors and suppliers, working with a reputable General Contractor (GC) feels like a safety net. Trust is established, the relationship is solid, and payment seems all but guaranteed. But here’s the hard truth: trust alone isn’t enough to protect your lien rights.
In Florida, protecting your payments starts with filing a Notice to Owner (NTO)—whether you trust the GC or not. This crucial step preserves your right to file a lien if necessary and ensures you have legal recourse if things go wrong.
Why Filing an NTO is Essential to Protect Your Lien Rights, Even When You Trust the GC
- It’s About Your Rights, Not Their Integrity
The GC might have the best intentions, but delays, disputes, and financial troubles can happen. Filing an NTO is about safeguarding your rights, not questioning their integrity. - Maintaining Cash Flow Stability
When payments are delayed, your cash flow takes a hit. An NTO gives you the leverage you need to enforce payment, keeping your operations running smoothly. - Unexpected Issues Can Arise
Even reputable GCs can encounter issues—like non-payment from property owners, project delays, or financial hardship. Filing an NTO ensures you have protection, regardless of what happens upstream.
The 45-Day Rule
In Florida, subcontractors and suppliers have 45 days from the first day on the job or the first delivery of materials to serve a Notice to Owner. Missing this deadline means losing your lien rights—no exceptions.
To be safe, we recommend filing no later than the 35th day. This buffer allows time for processing and delivery, minimizing your risk of losing lien rights.
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How Sunshine Notices Can Help
At Sunshine Notices, we simplify the filing process to ensure your NTO is prepared and delivered accurately and on time. We remove the guesswork, so you can focus on your work—not deadlines.
📲 Ready to protect your payments? Contact us today.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. You should consult a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.