Rule 1653.Commencement of Action.
Last amended June 27, 2017 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 1653
Plain-English Summary
This rule sets how an action to enforce a mechanics’ lien begins. The plaintiff files a complaint with the prothonotary, and the complaint must be filed under the same docket number as the lien claim itself.
Keeping the complaint and the claim under one docket number links the enforcement action to the recorded lien it seeks to reduce to judgment, so the file shows the whole history from the filing of the claim through the suit. The Official Note points to the Mechanics’ Lien Law for filing the underlying claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a mechanics' lien action start?
By filing a complaint with the prothonotary under the same docket number as the lien claim.
Official Note
Official Note: To file a claim for a mechanics’ lien, see the Mechanics’ Lien Law of 1963, 49 P.S. §§ 1101—1902, as amended.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1653 amended June 27, 2017, effective October 1, 2017, 47 Pa.B. 3805. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (255283).