Kentucky Preliminary Notice Guide: Preliminary Notice of Intent (KRS § 376.010)
Everything specialty trade subcontractors need to know about serving a compliant preliminary notice in Kentucky (KY), required recipients, and preserving full mechanics lien rights.
1. When Must a Subcontractor Send Notice in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, subcontractors and material suppliers who do not contract directly with the property owner must serve a Preliminary Notice of Intent (KRS § 376.010) within 75 days after your last day furnishing labor or materials.
Key Statutory Rule: Notice must be served on owner within 75 days of last furnishing for sub claims.
2. Who Must Receive the Notice & Proof of Service
Serve via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested (or statutory overnight courier) to the Property Owner, General Contractor, and Construction Lender (if applicable). Retain the stamped USPS mailing receipt as proof of timely service.
- Property Owner: Listed on the building permit, Notice of Commencement, or county tax assessor parcel record.
- Prime / General Contractor: The entity holding the direct contract with the owner.
- Construction Lender (if any): Protects priority if a bank or lender is financing the commercial build.
3. Essential Information to Include in Your Notice
To avoid technical invalidation in Kentucky, verify that your notice clearly states:
- Your company's legal business name, address, and contact information.
- Name and address of the General Contractor or party who hired you.
- Street address and legal/parcel description of the job site.
- Clear description of the trade labor, services, or materials furnished.
- Estimated or contracted dollar value of your subcontract scope.
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If your preliminary notice window is satisfied and an invoice is overdue, generate a formal Certified Mail Notice of Intent to Lien before your 180-day cutoff expires.
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