A Comprehensive Guide to Placing a Lien for Towing and Storage Fees in the U.S.
A Comprehensive Guide to Placing a Lien for Towing and Storage Fees in the U.S.
When towing and storage fees go unpaid, it can create significant financial strain on towing companies and auto repair shops. Fortunately, lien laws across the United States provide a legal pathway to recover these costs. While regulations vary by state, this guide offers a general overview of the steps businesses can follow to protect their financial interests and secure payment.
Have you wondered how to place a drivers license lien for towing and storage fees? Dp you need a DMV lien for towing and storage fees? Here’s how to file a lien for unpaid towing and storage fees.
Step 1: Complete the Services
Before starting the lien process, ensure you’ve performed the necessary services, such as towing, vehicle recovery, storage, or repairs. Meticulous documentation of the work performed and associated fees is essential for supporting your claim.
Step 2: Send a Claim of Lien Notice
Most states require you to notify the vehicle owner of your intent to file a lien. This notice typically includes:
- A description of the services rendered
- The total amount owed
- A deadline for payment before further action
Delivery methods, such as certified mail, and deadlines for issuing the notice—ranging from 7 to 30 days—vary by state. Be sure to comply with local requirements to maintain the validity of your claim.
Step 3: Verify Reasonable Charges
Ensure your fees for towing, storage, and repairs are consistent with industry standards in your region. Many states require that charges be reasonable; excessive pricing can jeopardize your ability to enforce the lien. Document your rates and local market practices to demonstrate fairness.
Step 4: File the Lien
If payment is not made by the deadline, you can proceed to file the lien. This may involve:
- Filing a Towing and Storage Lien with your state’s DMV or equivalent agency
- Submitting required documentation, such as unpaid invoices and a copy of the Claim of Lien Notice
- Partnering with a lien processing service to handle the filing
Step 5: Enforce the Lien
Once the lien is filed, enforcement options may include:
- Retaining possession of the vehicle until payment is received
- Conducting a public auction to recover fees (mechanic’s lien sale)
- In certain states, placing a lien on the vehicle owner’s driver’s license to restrict renewal until payment is made
Always follow your state’s specific enforcement procedures, including required notices and auction timelines, to ensure compliance.
Why Partner with Lien Experts
Navigating the lien process can be complex, particularly with varying regulations across states. Companies like Southern Title Liens and similar providers specialize in lien processing, simplifying the process and ensuring adherence to all legal requirements.
State-Specific Highlights
- Florida: Requires a Claim of Lien Notice under Florida Statutes Section 713.78, sent within 7 business days.
- California: Mandates notification to vehicle owners within 15 days before initiating a lien sale.
- Texas: Allows storage liens to be filed through the Texas DMV with clear deadlines for notices.
- New York: Enforces strict guidelines for lien filing and public auctions through local authorities.
For more information, consult your state’s specific statutes or work with a trusted lien processing expert to recover your towing and storage fees while adhering to all legal obligations.
Here are some resources you can read for more information:
Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine
Liens for Auto Repair Shops and Towing Companies + USA – Search
