Alabama's growing construction market from Huntsville to Mobile requires contractors to maintain strict documentation, particularly concerning the unique 'Unpaid Balance' lien. MyCrewTracker empowers Alabama contractors to manage their project documents and track preliminary notice deadlines effectively.
Alabama's Unpaid Balance Lien
Alabama has a highly unique two-tier mechanics lien system. Under Ala. Code § 35-11-210, a subcontractor or supplier who does not notify the owner in writing prior to furnishing materials will only be entitled to an "unpaid balance" lien (limited to the amount the owner still owes the prime contractor). To secure a "full price" lien, notice must be given prior to furnishing materials.
Because securing a full price lien requires notice before delivery, establishing an accurate timeline is critical. MyCrewTracker allows Alabama supervisors to use Daily Reports to log their first day on site, providing the back office with the exact dates needed to calculate notice deadlines and store the delivery receipts.
Alabama Prompt Pay Act
Cash flow is protected under Ala. Code § 8-29-2. On private projects, an owner must generally pay their prime contractor within 30 days of receiving a correct billing, and the prime must pay subcontractors within 7 days of receiving funds.
To leverage these statutory protections, contractors must maintain flawless records of invoice submission dates. MyCrewTracker provides a centralized repository for Alabama construction teams to store payment applications and communication logs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions in Alabama
What is the difference between a full price and unpaid balance lien in Alabama?
Under Ala. Code § 35-11-210, if you provide notice to the owner before furnishing materials, you may claim a "full price" lien. If you do not provide this advance notice, your lien is limited only to the "unpaid balance" the owner still owes the prime contractor.
What is the deadline under the Alabama Prompt Pay Act?
Under Ala. Code § 8-29-2, private project owners must generally pass down payments within 30 days of receiving a correct billing.
Can MyCrewTracker generate my Alabama lien notices?
No. MyCrewTracker is a document organization platform. It helps you track your project start dates, but you must manually draft and serve your notices.
Official Legal Sources
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Full Price vs. Unpaid Balance Lien Ala. Code § 35-11-210
Alabama Mechanics Liens — Notice must generally be provided to the owner before materials are furnished to secure a 'full price' lien.
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Prompt Pay Act Ala. Code § 8-29-2
Alabama Prompt Pay Act — Owners must pay contractors within 30 days; contractors must pay subs within 7 days of receiving funds.
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