A lien release (also known as a release of lien, lien cancellation, or cancellation of lien) is the document filed in the county records to release or discharge a mechanic’s and materialmen’s lien (also known as a construction lien or contractor lien) that was filed as a claim on the property title to secure payment for labor and materials provided to improve the real estate.
In Texas, a lien release, also known as a release of lien or lien cancellation, is a legal document used to remove a previously filed mechanic's and materialmen's lien from the property records. These liens are typically filed by contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers who have not been paid for labor or materials used in improving a property. Under Texas Property Code, once the debt has been satisfied, the lienholder is required to file a release of lien with the county clerk's office in the county where the property is located. The release must be filed within a reasonable time after the debt is satisfied, typically 10 days. Failure to timely release a lien can result in penalties, including potential liability for the lienholder for any damages caused by the failure to release the lien. It is important for property owners to obtain a lien release after paying off the debt to ensure clear title to their property and for contractors to file a release to avoid legal consequences.