Legal Question in Construction Law in United States Virgin Islands

Mechanics'Lien in the USVI

I had some one whom I thought was a friend do work on my home in the VI. Payment arrangements were never discussed. After the work was done he wanted to charge me $3000!!! If I tokd you about the minor work that he did you would be as shocked at the charge as I was. This UNLICENSED pal hs threatened to put a mechanics' lien on my property. Can he do this? What action should I take next? The work was so minimal, it is blatantly obvious he was trying to take me for a ride.


Asked on 12/31/07, 12:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kevin Connolly Kevin J. Connolly

Re: Mechanics'Lien in the USVI

Your "friend" certainly can file a construction lien against the property, if he qualifies to do so pursuant to Title 28, �271 of the Virgin Islands Code. The lien dissolves 90 days after it is filed unless within that 90-day period, the lienor files an action to foreclose the lien.

You should make sure the property is secure and wait the 90 days, then have a local lawyer check the courthouse records to make sure that no foreclosure suit was filed. Or, if he does file, to make sure that you know about that step in time to defend the lawsuit.

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Answered on 12/31/07, 12:40 pm


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