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Wisconsin Public Time Frames


Step 1: Notice
  • All suppliers and subcontractors, notify the prime contractor no later than 60 days from first furnishing.
  • Highway projects:  Only first-tier subcontractors and suppliers have rights.  (see Speed Bumps)

Step 2: Suit Against Bond
  • Within 1 year of completion of the work under the contract.

Bond Bits

  • Amount of Bond: 100% of contract price.
  • On contracts with the state, the state may not require a bond on contracts not exceeding $369,000. On contracts with local governments, the local government may not require a bond on contracts not exceeding $148,000.

Wisconsin Lien on Unpaid Funds Time Frames


Step 1: Lien on Unpaid Funds
  • Written notice of claim to the proper public authority and to the prime contractor prior to the payment of funds to the prime contractor.
  • Highway projects:  Only first-tier subcontractors and suppliers have rights.  (see speed bumps)

Step 1a: City of Milwaukee Projects
  • Attorney notification to city clerk and commissioner of public works within 20 days after the date of last furnishing.

Step 2: Suit
  • The prime contractor has 30 days after service to dispute the claim. The dispute must be made through service of written notice on the public entity and the claimant. If the prime contractor disputes the claim within 30 days, the lien remains in effect but the lien claimant must commence litigation within 3 months of service of the claim. If the prime contractor does not dispute the claim within 30 days, then the amount shall be paid to the lien claimant on demand and charged to prime contractor. Payment will be made 10 days after the filing of the judgment.