A mechanic’s lien is a privilege authorized by state law that permits contractors, suppliers, and certain qualifying construction professionals who have provided labor or materials to improve real property to publicly record the value of the unpaid improvements against the property owner’s title.
A tax lien is a legal claim made by the government for unpaid taxes against the real estate or other assets owned by an individual or company. The collection options for tax liens vary from state to state and the type of property that is subject to the tax lien, but the government often retains the right to be paid before any other claimant – including the lender that provided the mortgage.