A South Carolina contractor completes $85,000 worth of work on a commercial project. The owner fails to pay. What is the maximum mechanics lien amount the contractor can file?
Correct Answer
D) $85,000
In South Carolina, a contractor can file a mechanics lien for the full amount of unpaid work performed, which is $85,000 in this case.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
In South Carolina, a contractor may file a mechanics lien for the full amount of the unpaid contract balance. There is no statutory reduction or cap that would limit the lien to less than the value of work performed. The contractor is entitled to lien for the exact amount of unpaid work — $85,000.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: $93,500
$93,500 would represent $85,000 plus an additional 10%, which has no basis in South Carolina lien law. A mechanics lien cannot exceed the value of the unpaid work performed.
Option B: $76,500
$76,500 represents a 10% reduction from $85,000. South Carolina does not apply a percentage reduction to the lien amount — the full unpaid value is lienable.
Option C: $68,000
$68,000 represents a 20% reduction, which also has no statutory basis. There is no 80% rule or similar cap in South Carolina mechanics lien law.
Memory Technique
In SC, 'you lien what you're owed.' No more, no less. The mechanics lien mirrors the unpaid contract balance exactly.
More South Carolina Questions
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According to SC building codes, what is the maximum allowable deflection for a residential floor joist with a 16-foot span under live load?
A subcontractor completes $25,000 of electrical work but is not paid by the general contractor. The general contractor was paid by the owner. What is the subcontractor's lien priority against the property?
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