Download Utah Waiver and Release on Final Payment Forms

In Utah, mechanic's liens are governed under Title 38, Chapter 1A of the Utah Code. Throughout the construction process, claimants may elect to serve the property owner with a lien waiver in exchange for partial or full payment. Title 38, Chapter 1a, Section 802 sets forth requirements for lien waivers.

The term "waiver" refers to giving up a legal right. In this case, the person granting the waiver is giving up the right to seek a mechanic's lien for all or part of the amount due. This assurance is usually enough to induce the other party to pay. In many states, waivers can be conditional or unconditional. In Utah, however, all lien waivers are conditional, meaning if the payment given in exchange for any waiver and release of lien is made by check; and the check fails to clear the depository institution on which it is drawn for any reason, the waiver and release is void. Id. In contrast to other states, Utah offers stronger protection for contractors using lien waivers.

A claimant's written consent that waives or limits the claimant's lien rights is enforceable only if the claimant executes a waiver and release that is signed by the claimant or an authorized agent; or for a restrictive endorsement on a check, includes a restrictive endorsement on a check that is signed by the claimant or the claimant's authorized agent; and includes restrictive language that specifies that payment is for a waiver. Utah Code Ann. 38-1A-802. For any waiver to be effective, the claimant must also receive payment of the amount identified in the waiver and release or check that includes the restrictive endorsement, including payment by a joint payee check. Id.

Use the "Waiver and Release of Lien upon Final Payment" in exchange for or to induce a final payment. Utah Code Ann. 38-1A-802(4)(c). The document includes the property name (if any), property location, customer's name, invoice or payment application number, and payment amount. Id. Sign and date the document in the presence of a notary, then submit it to the local recording office if the claimant is releasing a previously filed lien. If the claimant is simply waiving lien rights, deliver the signed waiver to the customer and/or property owner in exchange for the final payment.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice from an attorney. Please contact a Utah attorney with any questions regarding construction liens or lien waivers.