Lien Waivers for Contractors: When You Need Them & How to Generate One
Learn when conditional vs unconditional lien waivers are required, what they protect, and how to auto-generate them from your invoices.
If you're a contractor, you've been asked for a lien waiver. Maybe by a homeowner, maybe by a general contractor, maybe by a title company. Here's what they are, when you need them, and how to generate one in 10 seconds.
What Is a Lien Waiver?
A lien waiver is a document where a contractor gives up their right to place a mechanic's lien on a property. It's a receipt that says: "I got paid for this work, and I won't come after the property later."
Conditional vs. Unconditional
- Conditional lien waiver: "I waive my lien rights IF I receive payment." Use this when you haven't been paid yet. If the check bounces, the waiver is void.
- Unconditional lien waiver: "I waive my lien rights, period." Use this after payment has cleared. No take-backs.
When You Need One
- When a GC requires one before releasing your draw
- When a homeowner requests one at final payment
- When a title company requires one for a real estate closing
- When your state requires one by law (California, Texas, Florida, and others)
How SendPaid Generates Lien Waivers
Every invoice in SendPaid has a "Download Lien Waiver" button. Click it and get a professional PDF with:
- Your business name and address
- Property owner name and address
- Invoice number and amount
- Work description (pulled from your line items)
- Signature and date lines
- Notary line (if required)
Conditional waivers are generated for unpaid invoices. Unconditional waivers are generated for paid invoices. The system chooses automatically.
Get Started
SendPaid is the only invoicing tool under $50/mo that includes lien waiver generation. Free for 3 clients.