What can trigger the effectiveness of a lien on a property?

The effectiveness of a lien on a property is primarily triggered by the public recording of the lien. When a lien is recorded in the appropriate government office, it provides public notice regarding the claim against the property. This recording serves as a legal mechanism to enforce the lien, making it binding on third parties and establishing priority among creditors.

Recording the lien is crucial because it protects the interests of the lienholder; without this step, the lien would not be enforceable against other creditors or potential buyers of the property. Essentially, the act of public recording is what makes the lien official and legally recognized, allowing the lienholder to pursue their rights if the property owner defaults or fails to satisfy the obligations related to the lien.

Other factors, such as notarization of the document or a mutually signed agreement, may lend credibility or legal weight to the lien but do not replace the necessity of public recording. Similarly, a default on a loan payment can give rise to a lien but does not itself make the lien effective without the proper recording.