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Lien Agent Information
A lien agent is a title insurer or agent also registered as a lien agent with the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
As of April 1, 2013, North Carolina law requires that an owner or general contractor appoint a lien agent for improvements to real property. Building permits will not be issued until the name and contact information of the lien agent is provided to the Permitting Office. For more information, view the Lien Agent Information Sheet (PDF).
Appointment of a lien agent is not required for the following:
Access the Lien Agent Information Form (PDF) or contact the Permitting Office at 252-902-3150.
Law Requirements
As of April 1, 2013, North Carolina law requires that an owner or general contractor appoint a lien agent for improvements to real property. Building permits will not be issued until the name and contact information of the lien agent is provided to the Permitting Office. For more information, view the Lien Agent Information Sheet (PDF).
When a Lien Agent Is Not Required
Appointment of a lien agent is not required for the following:
- Improvements for which the costs of the undertaking are less than $30,000, either at the time that the original building permit is issued or, in cases in which no building permit is required, at the time the contract for the improvements is entered into with the owner
- Improvements to an existing single-family residential dwelling unit as defined in G.S. 87-15.5(7) that is used by the owner as a residence
- Improvements for which first furnishing of labor or materials at the site is prior to April 1, 2013
- Improvements involving the construction, reconstruction, alteration or repair of any public building or other public work or public improvement
More Information
Access the Lien Agent Information Form (PDF) or contact the Permitting Office at 252-902-3150.