California Lien Waiver Guide
California requires statutory lien waiver forms. Non-compliant waivers may be void and unenforceable.
Key Information
Waiver Type
Statutory
Filing Deadline
90 days from completion or notice of completion (30 days for subcontractors if notice of completion recorded)
Notice Requirements
Preliminary 20-day notice required for all claimants (except laborers). Must be served within 20 days of first furnishing.
Key Statutes
Cal. Civ. Code §8132-8138 (waiver forms); §8200-8214 (mechanics liens)
Waiver Types in California
Conditional Waiver on Progress PaymentRequired
Waives lien rights for a specific progress payment, but only upon actual receipt of payment. Protects the claimant if the check bounces or payment fails.
Unconditional Waiver on Progress PaymentRequired
Immediately and unconditionally waives lien rights for a specific progress payment amount, regardless of whether payment has actually been received.
Conditional Waiver on Final PaymentRequired
Waives all lien rights upon receipt of the final payment. The waiver is conditioned on actual receipt of the specified final payment amount.
Unconditional Waiver on Final PaymentRequired
Immediately and unconditionally waives all lien rights. This is the most comprehensive waiver and should only be signed after final payment is confirmed in your account.
California Lien Waiver Rules
California strictly requires statutory waiver forms. Any waiver not in substantial compliance with Civil Code §8132-8138 is void and unenforceable. Four mandatory forms exist. Oral or informal waivers are not recognized. The conditional forms become effective only upon payment. This is one of the most regulated states for lien waivers.
Generate a California Lien Waiver Now
Create a compliant statutory lien waiver for California in under 2 minutes.
Create California Lien Waiver