Legal Definitions - garageman's lien

A garageman's lien is a legal right that allows someone who has performed work or supplied materials to a piece of personal property to keep possession of that property until they are paid for their services. It acts as a form of security, ensuring that the service provider receives compensation for their labor and materials. This lien remains in effect as long as the service provider holds the property and until the agreed-upon payment is made. While the name suggests automobiles, this type of lien applies to a wide range of personal property that has been repaired, improved, or serviced.

Here are some examples illustrating how a garageman's lien might apply:

• Imagine a boat owner takes their yacht to a marine repair shop for extensive engine maintenance and hull repainting. After the work is completed, the owner disputes the bill and refuses to pay. The marine repair shop can exercise a garageman's lien, meaning they can legally retain possession of the yacht until the owner pays the outstanding balance for the repairs and materials provided. The shop's right to hold the boat secures their payment for the work done.

• Consider an individual who commissions an artisan to restore a valuable antique wooden desk. The artisan spends weeks carefully repairing, sanding, and refinishing the desk, using specialized materials. If the client fails to pay the agreed-upon fee upon completion, the artisan can assert a garageman's lien. This allows the artisan to keep the restored desk in their possession until the client settles the payment for the labor and materials invested in its restoration.

• A small business relies on a highly specialized industrial printer. When it breaks down, they send it to a repair technician who specializes in that particular equipment. The technician orders expensive parts and spends many hours diagnosing and fixing the complex machinery. If the business owner then refuses to pay the repair invoice, the technician can invoke a garageman's lien, legally holding onto the repaired industrial printer until the business pays for the parts and labor provided. This ensures the technician is compensated for their expert service.