A.R.S. § 33-992.01
Arizona's 20-Day Preliminary Notice under A.R.S. § 33-992.01 is unique in that EVERYONE on a private construction project — including the direct contractor — must serve it. The notice goes to the owner, the original contractor, and the construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing.
Everyone in the construction chain on a private Arizona project — direct contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, equipment lessors, and design professionals — must serve a 20-Day Preliminary Notice to preserve lien rights.
Within 20 days of first furnishing labor, materials, or professional services. Late notices only protect labor or materials furnished in the 20 days before service.
Personal delivery or first-class certified or registered mail with delivery confirmation. A signed proof of service is required for any later lien claim.
Required of every person furnishing labor, materials, or professional services to private construction in Arizona, regardless of contract tier — including direct contractors.
Read § 33-992.01 on the official statute site
Yes — unlike California, Arizona requires EVERY claimant (including the direct contractor) to serve a 20-Day Preliminary Notice to preserve lien rights.
You can still serve the notice late, but you only protect labor and materials furnished within 20 days before late service. Everything older is forfeit for lien purposes.
Owner (or reputed owner), original contractor, construction lender (if any), and the person who ordered the work if different from the above.
This page is general information about Arizona's Arizona 20-Day Preliminary Notice (A.R.S. § 33-992.01) and is not legal advice. Deadlines and service rules change — verify current requirements with a licensed Arizona construction attorney before relying on them.