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Home » Builders Liens » BC Builders Lien Guide

BC Builders Lien Guide

by | Oct 31, 2025 | Builders Liens

If you work in construction, you know how important it is to get paid for your work. A builders lien is one of the strongest legal tools available to protect that right.

At McKechnie & Company, we’ve prepared a free 20-page Builders Lien Guide that explains, in plain language, how the Builders Lien Act works in British Columbia. It’s designed for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who need clear, practical information about lien rights, holdbacks, and payment protection.

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What the Builders Lien Act Does

The Builders Lien Act prevents property owners from being unjustly enriched, benefiting from construction work without paying for it. The law balances the interests of owners, contractors, and workers through three main pillars:

  • The lien – securing payment for work or materials provided
  • The holdback – limiting an owner’s liability to 10% of the contract price
  • The trust – ensuring construction funds are properly distributed

What You’ll Learn in the Guide

The Guide answers essential questions such as:

  • Who is entitled to file a builders lien in BC?
  • What are the deadlines and filing requirements?
  • How are holdbacks calculated and released?
  • What does “completion” or “abandonment” mean for filing deadlines?
  • How can an owner remove or discharge a lien?
  • What is the difference between lien rights and trust claims?
  • How do liens interact with mortgages and payment bonds?

Why This Matters

Lien deadlines are strict and the rules are detailed. A single error in filing or timing can invalidate a claim. This guide explains the law and highlights common pitfalls so you can act confidently when payment disputes arise.

View and Download the Guide Here

Download the free Builders Lien Guide from McKechnie Legal to learn how to protect your right to payment and navigate construction law in BC with confidence.

Whether you’re a contractor, supplier, or property owner, understanding builders liens can save you time, money, and stress.