Waiving Your Rights Away by David R. Glissman, Esq. Although mechanic's lien statutes vary from state to state, one thing never changes. Everyone wants you to waive your rights to file a mechanic's lien prior to getting paid. Some general contractors and owners even go so far as to insist that you waive these rights prior to starting the job. Others ask you to do so just before they go to their lender for a draw on construction financing. Although some still pay you in exchange for the waiver of mechanic's liens, their numbers are dwindling while the use of prepayment waivers is increasing. This article is intended to offer some practical guidance in protecting your rights while recognizing the