Williams & Works, Inc. v. Springfield Corp.

(for reversal). This case concerns the sole question whether oif-site engineering services rendered before the beginning of actual, on- site construction qualify, pursuant to § 9(3) of the Michigan mechanics’ lien law, as "the commencement of said building or buildings, erection, structure or improvement” 1 so as to give priority to mechanics’ liens over a mortgage recorded after the provision of such services but prior to the beginning of any visible, on-site construction. 2

Long established Michigan precedent 3 in line with that in most American jurisdictions 4 requires a visible, on-site…