You CAN record a material mens lien or mechanics lien against the property.  Just the same as a carpenter who is working for a general contractor who has the actual contract to renovate or build your house.  And the lien will get paid.  When?  1-When the house transfers title it has to be paid at that closing and will be identified as a cost to the Seller on the ALTA. 2- When you go to District Court and file for a judgment.  The judgment is a demand for payment of the lien.  You can even foreclose on the property with that judgment in hand.  That does not assure you will get paid, though.  Your lien/judgment is in a junior position because the mortgages and/or the DoT's get priority. And if the Owner has purchased title insurance you can make a claim.  There are many ways to get paid including pursuation, coercion or legal remedies.  You just have to be proactive!to post a reply: login - or - register