What is the primary purpose of a contractor's lien?

The primary purpose of a contractor's lien is to secure payment for contractors and subcontractors by placing a claim on a property. This legal tool allows contractors to ensure they receive compensation for the work performed, materials supplied, or services rendered. When a contractor files a lien against a property, it effectively encumbers the property, alerting the property owner and any potential buyers that there is a financial obligation attached to the property. This helps safeguard the contractor's financial interest by providing a means to compel payment should the property owner fail to fulfill their payment obligations. The claim remains in place until the debt is paid, serving as a strong incentive for property owners to settle outstanding amounts.

The other options address different aspects of construction and contracting processes but do not accurately describe the primary function of a contractor's lien. A warranty for construction work relates to assurances regarding quality rather than payment security, while documenting project changes refers to managing alterations rather than enforcing payment rights. Certifying project completion is related to the formal conclusion of work and does not encompass the financial security aspect of a lien.