What is a specific lien for improvements such as roads or sewers called?

The specific lien for improvements such as roads or sewers is known as a Special Assessments Lien. This type of lien is typically placed by a government authority or municipality to collect funds for additional services or infrastructure improvements that benefit specific properties. When a local government assesses a property for such improvements, it creates this lien to ensure the property owner contributes to the cost of those enhancements, which are considered unique, non-recurring improvements that increase the value of the property or benefit its use.

The significance of the Special Assessments Lien lies in its direct relation to improvements that serve a particular area, resulting in enhanced utility or value for property owners. This makes it distinct from other types of liens, such as property tax liens, which are broader and relate specifically to unpaid property taxes, or operational liens, which are more concerned with debts related to operational expenses rather than specific improvements.

Therefore, understanding the context and purpose of a Special Assessments Lien is crucial for recognizing how local governments fund enhancements in infrastructure and services, and how these assessments directly link to property ownership and value.