By Matthew A. Quick Public Act 96-654 has amended the Mechanics Lien Act to require a contractor who improves a single-family dwelling that is owner-occupied to give the owner written notice within ten (10) days after recording a lien against the property of the owner. In the event such notice is not given and it causes the owner to suffer damages before the notice is given, the lien shall be extinguished to the extent of the damage. This law is effective for contracts entered into after January 1, 2010.