Lien Agent Information

lien agent

Understanding the North Carolina Lien Agent System

The North Carolina Lien Agent System is a statewide online tool that helps property owners, contractors, and suppliers share required lien agent information for construction projects. The system helps protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers while keeping property owners informed about who is working on a project. It also provides a clear way for subcontractors and suppliers to know where to send required notices.

How the LiensNC System Works

  • The property owner or contractor selects a lien agent from a state-approved list and registers the project.
  • Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers log into the system to submit notices to the lien agent.
  • All parties involved can access accurate project information.

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  1. Requirements
  2. Exemptions

When a Lien Agent Is Required

Under North Carolina law (N.C.G.S. 153A-357), a building permit cannot be issued for projects costing $30,000 or more unless one of the following applies:

  • The work is an improvement to an existing single-family home that the owner lives in, or
  • The property owner has named a lien agent and submitted the required information using the Lien Agent Information Form.

The lien agent information is added to the permit record, provided to the applicant, and posted at the construction site. A lien agent is a title insurance company or agent registered with the North Carolina Department of Insurance.

A lien agent is not required if:

  • The total project cost is less than $30,000
  • The work is on an existing home that the owner lives in
  • The project involves a public building or public improvement