Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
Hi, I own my home outright, no mortgage, and recently had a cement driveway installed. The work was completed and I paid the contractor. Today I received a certified letter from the cement company informing me that they were not paid and that they will be filing a lien on my home if I do not pay them for the cement, $806.00.
My question is what recourse do I have? Also, if they do file a lien what does that mean, can they can foreclose on my house or ruin my credit.
I don't plan on moving so what happens if I just let this go?
Thanks in advance for any advice. I would hire an attorney but that will probably cost more than the lien.:)
Greg
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
How does a cement company do business with a contractor like that.
I would write that contractor. What a scumbag. Then I would write the cement company and ask them how they can sell cement without payment?
The contractor is a roid and I would not put it past the cement company to being in on this scam. I would call them on it.
If I got no satisfaction I would complain to the BBB, the local newspaper, etc. I would also complain to the local cops... this might be an ongoing racket.
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
Have you inquired about this with the contractor yet? Or have you asked the supplier if they know of any reason why the contractor might not have paid them?
If push comes to shove, you can sue the contractor in small claims court.
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
I have contacted the contractor repeatedly but he has not responded. I have a feeling he skipped town. The cement company said that can't get hold of him either, so I guess that is why they are coming after me.
The whole thing just doesn't seem fair.
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
I take it, then, this wasn't a licensed, bonded contractor?
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
Unfortunately no he's not, that was my mistake not checking first.
Re: Mechanics Liens in Pennsylvania
You get what you pay for and then you get to pay again.
Never use an unlicensed contractor for any reason.
I suppose you have to pay for the concrete to get rid of the lien. I would still want to know how a cement company extends credit to a unlicensed contractor. Whoever handles their credit applications needs to find a new job. Certainly the application should have a space for the state license number, etc. I would give it to those morons.
You are expected to pay because they are too stupid to operate their business properly.