As a construction sub-contractor in Florida, your rights to payment rely heavily on sending a proper Notice to Owner (NTO) by the legal deadline. Don't leave money on the table simply because you missed a notice deadline. Use this essential document to your benefit.
Who Needs to Send an NTO?
If you have signed a direct contract with the property owner, you may not need an NTO. Otherwise, Florida law requires sub-contractors and suppliers to deliver an NTO within 45 days of first starting work or delivering materials. This puts the property owner on notice that you are owed payment.
Don't Wait Until the Deadline
A common downfall is mailing the notice on day 45. Since it must be received within 45 days, send it promptly as soon as work begins. The quicker you assert your rights, the safer payment will be if issues arise down the road.
Lien Deadlines to Remember
While the NTO comes first, retain your right to payment by recording a Claim of Lien within 90 days from last furnishing work/materials. You must also send copies of the claim within 15 days and allow proper timeframes if filing suit to foreclose. Miss these deadlines at your peril.
An NTO Protects Your Rights
Sending an NTO does not imply any mistrust of the property owner or contractor. It simply asserts lien rights in case lack of payment becomes an issue. Owners and contractors expect sub-contractors to protect themselves through an NTO. Don't leave your rights on the table.
Safeguard Your Business in Florida
As a construction sub-contractor or supplier, a Notice to Owner lays the payment groundwork on any new project. Follow NTO regulations and timelines to give your business the safety net it deserves if a client fails to pay. With proper notice, your firm can continue running smoothly even when others fall short.
Sending a Notice to Owner is vital for securing lien rights and getting paid as a sub-contractor. Don't skip this crucial step.
Mail your Notice to Owner as soon as work starts instead of delaying towards the deadline. Get it handled early.
Regardless of having a formal contract or informal agreement, submit your Notice to Owner when beginning a new Florida project.
Stay organized by using a Project Information Sheet to track details on each of your jobs. This makes the process smoother.
A Notice to Owner doesn't question a customer's trustworthiness. It's a standard process for sub-contractors to protect themselves if unpaid.
Florida's Notice to Owner puts all parties on alert that you have preserved your right to file a lien claim later on if issues emerge.