What is one way builders can limit liens by subcontractors and suppliers?

Filing a surety bond is an effective strategy for builders to limit liens by subcontractors and suppliers. A surety bond serves as a financial guarantee that the obligations outlined in the contract will be fulfilled. If a contractor fails to pay their subcontractors or suppliers, the bond can be used to cover the unpaid amounts. This provides subcontractors and suppliers with a level of security, helping to prevent them from filing a lien against the property for unpaid services or materials. The use of surety bonds is a common practice in the construction industry to ensure financial responsibility and protect all parties involved.

Other options, while they may seem beneficial, don't provide the same level of assurance or do not inherently prevent liens. For instance, paying subcontractors in advance does not guarantee that they will complete their work or that they won't later claim a lien if they feel underpaid or unpaid. Reducing contract amounts may affect the quality or scope of work, leading to issues that can cause disputes and potential liens. Hiring only licensed contractors ensures compliance with regulations but does not directly mitigate the risk of liens from suppliers or subcontractors.