May Day is a big deal in many countries, with celebrations honoring workers of the world. Here in the U.S., with home improvement season in full swing, it's a good time to remember workers too (especially when it comes to being sure they're paid!) Why? Because of a tough law called a mechanic?s lien. It goes back to ancient Rome and ensures that those who work on your home get paid for their services...or they have swift and sure ?legal recourse? that ties up your home and property until it's paid! Sound scary? It can be, unless you take steps to protect yourself! First, hire a 'reputable? contractor, and discuss lien releases both from them and all those they will hire along the way. Then, only pay for work ?as you go?, and get conditional lien releases when writing checks that become un-conditional when the check clears the bank. Otherwise, you could wind up paying for things twice when a contractor is not being nice (payment or contract-wise!)