Bond Claims
Working on a public project? You can't file a lien against government property, but you can file a bond claim to secure your payment from the project's payment bond.
What is a Payment Bond Claim?
On public construction projects (government buildings, schools, highways, etc.), contractors cannot file mechanics liens against government-owned property. Instead, the law requires prime contractors to obtain payment bonds to protect subcontractors and suppliers.
A payment bond is essentially an insurance policy that guarantees payment to those who provide labor and materials on the project. When you file a bond claim, you're making a claim against this bond to recover unpaid amounts.
Federal projects fall under the Miller Act, while state and local projects are governed by "Little Miller Acts" that vary by state.
Types of Bond Claims:
- Miller Act Claims
For federal government projects over $100,000
- Little Miller Act Claims
For state and local government projects
- Private Bond Claims
Some private projects also have payment bonds
Miller Act Bond Claims
Who Can File?
- First-tier subcontractors (direct contract with prime)
- Second-tier subcontractors (with proper notice)
- Material suppliers to first and second tier
- Laborers who worked on the project
Key Deadlines
- 90 days: Notice deadline for second-tier claimants
- 1 year: Lawsuit filing deadline from last work
- 90 days: Wait period before filing suit
How We Help With Bond Claims
Identify Bond
We research and obtain the payment bond information
Prepare Claim
We prepare your claim documents per applicable law
File & Serve
We file your claim and serve all required parties
Follow Up
We track responses and provide guidance on next steps
Get a Quote for Bond Claims
Each bond claim is unique. Contact us to discuss your project and get a customized quote based on your specific needs and jurisdiction.
Payment Bond Claims
For private and public projects with payment bonds
Miller Act Claims
For federal government projects over $100,000
Working on a Public Project?
Don't wait until it's too late. Send your bond claim notice to protect your payment rights.