North Carolina's Notice of Commencement is unique: instead of recording at the county courthouse, the owner designates a state-approved lien agent through LiensNC for any improvement costing $30,000 or more (with limited owner-occupied exceptions). Subcontractors and suppliers then serve notices on the lien agent — not the owner — to preserve lien rights. Required for any improvement to real property where the cost of the undertaking is $30,000 or more — except for improvements to a one-or-two family dwelling that is or will be occupied as a residence by the owner. The owner of the real property (or the owner's authorized agent) appoints the lien agent and is responsible for posting the lien agent's information. No later than the time the owner first contracts with anyone to furnish labor or materials. In practice, the appointment is typically made at or before building-permit issuance. Designated electronically with a state-approved lien agent through the LiensNC online directory (https://www.liensnc.com). North Carolina does not use county courthouse recording for the NOC; the lien agent designation is the official notice.