Under what condition is a contractor entitled to file a mechanics lien?

A contractor is entitled to file a mechanics lien when they have provided labor, materials, or services to a construction project and have not received payment. This right to file a lien typically arises after the materials and labor have been delivered, but before the contractor receives payment for these services. The mechanics lien serves as a legal claim against the property for the unpaid amount, ensuring that the contractor has a legal recourse to recover what is owed.

This understanding is critical in the context of construction contracts, as it emphasizes the importance of timely payments for the labor and materials provided on-site. It also underscores the contractor's rights to secure payment when they fulfill their part of the agreement by delivering necessary services or supplies.

Other options do not align with the requirements of filing a mechanics lien. For instance, filing at any time after signing the contract would be inappropriate because it undermines the need for a tangible action—such as the delivery of labor or materials—to justify the lien. Similarly, waiting until the project is completed disregards the contractor's rights to enforce a claim during the project. Lastly, the requirement that all subcontractors be paid before filing a lien imposes an unnecessary limitation, as a contractor can pursue their lien independent of the status of subcontractor payments.