Montana Lien Notice serves as a crucial legal document utilized to protect the rights of contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who have contributed to construction projects or provided materials or services to improve a property. A Montana Lien Notice is filed to assert a lien on a property when there is a failure by the property owner to make timely payments for the work done or the materials supplied. In Montana, two commonly used types of lien notices are the Montana Preliminary Notice and the Montana Notice and Claim of Lien. 1. Montana Preliminary Notice: A Preliminary Notice, also known as a Notice of Right to Lien, is typically sent by a contractor or supplier at the beginning of a project to notify the property owner and other relevant parties of their involvement and potential lien rights. It serves as a proactive measure to ensure that the claimant's right to file a lien is protected if payment issues arise in the future. 2. Montana Notice and Claim of Lien: If a property owner fails to make payment for the work done or the materials supplied, the claimant can file a Montana Notice and Claim of Lien. This document is filed with the County Clerk and Recorder's office within 90 days from the last date of labor or materials provided. The Notice and Claim of Lien formally establishes the lien on the property and serves as a legal instrument for the claimant to enforce their right to payment. It is important to note that a copy of this notice must also be served upon the property owner within five days of filing. Both the Montana Preliminary Notice and the Montana Notice and Claim of Lien are crucial steps in protecting the rights of construction professionals and suppliers under Montana's lien laws. These notices provide a mechanism for asserting a lien on the property, ensuring that contractors and suppliers have a legal recourse to secure payment for their work and materials. By understanding the specifications and requirements of these notices, claimants can navigate the legal process and protect themselves from payment disputes on construction projects in Montana.