Registering and Removing Liens on Title in Ontario

Registering a Lien

What is a Lien?

A lien is a legal claim or a “hold” on a property, making it collateral against money or services owed to another person or entity. In Ontario, common types of liens include construction liens, liens for unpaid debts, liens for unpaid property taxes, liens for overdue common expenses etc.

Steps to Register a Lien

1. Determine Eligibility
   • Ensure you have a valid reason to place a lien. For instance, in construction, if you provided labor or materials and were not paid, you might be eligible to file a lien.
2. Gather Required Information
   • Legal description of the property.
   • Amount owed.
   • Detailed description of the services or materials provided.
3. Register the Lien
   • Your legal representative will electronically register a lien on your behalf via Teraview system.
   • Pay the required legal fees and registration costs.
   • Note: For construction liens, there are strict timelines to be followed to register and perfect the lien, from the date the work was completed or materials were supplied.
4. Serve Notice
   • Serve a copy of the lien claim to the property owner and any other parties with an interest in the property as required.

Removing a Lien

Steps to Remove a Lien

1. Satisfy the Lien
   • Resolve the underlying issue that caused the lien, usually by paying the owed amount or negotiating a settlement.
2. Obtain a Discharge of Lien
   • Request a “Discharge of Lien” from the lienholder and/or their lawyer once the issue is resolved/once the owed debt is paid out.
3. Register the Discharge
   • Your legal representative will register discharge of the lien on Teraview system on your behalf.
   • Pay the required legal fee and discharge registration costs.
4. Verify Removal
   • Check the property title to ensure the lien has been removed. This can be done through land title search by your legal representative.

For further detailed instructions and access to necessary forms, visit the Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services website or consult with us today.