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Partial Release of Lien Form

A partial release of lien releases the lien on a portion of property while leaving the remainder subject to the lien. It is commonly used for construction or real estate. The form should be signed and notarized in the county where the property is located.
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Updated December 03, 2024

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Why Use a Partial Release of Lien?

While a traditional lien release completely releases a Mechanic’s Lien claim entirely, a lien holder would utilize a Partial Release of Lien to reduce a portion of the original amount owed to the direct contractor, subcontractor or materials supplier.

How to Use a Partial Release of Lien (4 steps)

1. Notify the Mechanic

Contact the appropriate Mechanic to ensure they can begin the process of creating a bill or invoice. Invoice should include details of the work completed during that time period, what materials were used and total cost being billed. A Partial Release of Lien can then be drafted, to be inclusive of:

  • Details of the remaining payments.
  • Acknowledgment that the waiver of claims is contingent on the receipt of the funds.
  • The future rights the currently Lien Holder Retains for future materials, labor or supplies.
  • Remaining rights and responsibilities of the direct contractor, subcontractor or materials supplier.
  • Remaining rights and responsibilities of the owner or responsible party.
  • Indemnity clause advising that owner is held harmless against any potential third parties that may attempt a suit against the owner for any property released in agreement. The direct contractor, subcontractor or materials supplier would adhere to defending the owner financially and legally against filed suits.

2. Make a Partial Payment

The payment should be made by check and clear the financial institution prior to the form being signed, notarized and recorded. If payments are being made to the contractor and subcontractors or materials suppliers, a joint check should be issued to ensure all parties receive payment.

3. Download, Sign, and Notarize

Form should include language acknowledging that the document is not a lien modification, nor is it a lien waiver. All parties involved should sign and have a state-appointed notary acknowledge the Partial Release of Lien to be a legally binding document.

4. File with County Recorder’s Office

Upon all signatures being documented the Partial Release of Lien form should be recorded with the Country Recorder’s Office.

Release vs. Waiver

A Partial Release of Lien, releases an original Mechanic’s Lien claim moderately. The direct contractor, subcontractor or materials supplier would then have the reduced amount adjusted accordingly, while still maintaining the right to the lien until all funds have been received in full.  Direct contractors, subcontractors and material suppliers may need to inquire with local legal counsel as a Partial Release of Lien may not be filed in accordance with various state laws. A Lien Waiver differs in that it would waive all rights prior to the Mechanic’s Lien being filed; this is usually done in exchange for payment. The waiver would serve as a receipt of monetary funds and the Lien holder would waive all rights to filing a future lien against the owner.