The original contractor and any subcontractors and sub-subcontractor who provide labor or materials for improvements to real property are entitled to lien rights. The term "original contractor" includes any party who contracts directly with the property owner, such as project managers, laborers, architects, engineers, etc. In general, there are no requirements for the lien claimant to be licensed in Illinois, however, this lack of licensing requirement may not extend to design professionals.
The filing deadline depends upon the party against whom the lien is being filed. To be effective against all parties, including subsequent purchasers, the lien must be filed within 4 months of completion of the project. To be effective only against the original property owner, the lien must be filed within 2 years of completion of the last lienable work.