Getting paid in commercial construction requires knowing your statutory lien rights. Chapter 53 of the Texas Property Code governs mechanics and materialmans liens for private commercial construction projects across the state.
The 15th-Day Monthly Notice Calendar
In Texas, missing a notice deadline by even one calendar day permanently forfeits your statutory lien rights against the property owner. Notice deadlines are pegged strictly to the month the labor was provided or materials delivered, regardless of when invoice dates occur.
| Month Labor / Materials Delivered | Notice Deadline (to Owner & GC) | Lien Filing Deadline (County Clerk) |
|---|---|---|
| January Work | April 15th | May 15th |
| April Work | July 15th | August 15th |
| July Work | October 15th | November 15th |
| October Work | January 15th | February 15th |
Statutory 10% Retainage Rights
Property owners in Texas are required by law to withhold 10% statutory retainage from the general contractor until 30 days following project completion. To secure a claim against this retainage fund, subcontractors must send statutory notice within 30 days after their work is completed or their contract is terminated.