Estate of Haselwood v. Bremerton Ice Arena, Inc.

¶1 — The question in this case centers on the mechanics’ lien statute, chapter 60.04 RCW.1 We must determine whether a mechanics’ lien can attach to improvements on property but not the real property itself and, if so, whether that lien has priority over a previously recorded deed of trust.

¶2 Joanne and Charles Haselwood (the Haselwoods)2 loaned Bremerton Ice Arena, Inc. (BIA) money to construct an ice arena on property owned by the city of Bremerton (City). A promissory note was executed between the Haselwoods and BIA, which was secured by a deed of trust. BIA defaulted on the promissory…