When The Shop Keeps It
Idaho Code § 45-806 and Idaho Code § 45-805 — a repair lien while the shop holds it, and an auction after two months unpaid
The lien rides on possession. Whoever makes, alters or repairs personal property at the owner's request has a lien for reasonable charges for the work and materials, ahead of any security interest, and may keep the property until paid.
To put the lien ahead of a lender, the repairer gives notice by registered mail to any secured lender of record, and for a motor vehicle any lienholder on the title, at least three days before starting. If the lender does not object in writing within those three days, the work may go ahead.
Two months, then an auction. If the charges are not paid within two months after the work is done, the property may be sold at public auction after ten days' public notice in a county newspaper. The proceeds pay the lien and the costs of keeping and selling, and the rest goes to the owner.
A person who stores, protects or carries property has a similar lien that depends on possession. If it is unpaid sixty days after the service, the property may be auctioned on ten days' notice, with notice also sent to the owner and any secured lender.
Notice of a sale under section 45-805 goes by personal service or certified or registered mail to the owner and any prior secured lender. A particular bill is a question for a licensed Idaho attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- Idaho Code § 45-806 — Lien for making, altering, or repairing personal property
- Idaho Code § 45-805 — Liens for services on or caring for property
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Idaho attorney.