Florida law requires that a copy of the construction lien be served on the owner of the real property “before recording or within 15 days after recording” the construction lien. Although a lienor is only required to serve a copy of the construction lien on the owner, as soon as a construction lien is signed and notarized, a copy should be sent to everyone listed on the notice of commencement and the notice to owner. Furnishing copies of the construction lien to more than just the owner may assist the lienor in obtaining payment because numerous parties will be aware of labor and materials provided and amounts outstanding. It is recommended that certified mail, return receipt requested be used to establish proof of receipt. Failure to timely serve a copy of the construction lien on the owner renders the construction lien voidable if prejudice can be established by any person entitled to rely on the service.
