Lein for $300 job

[Viral Patel]

Hi, 

I have a recurring issue in Texas whenever I hire a plumber or handyman. This time, I sent a plumber to unclog the drain, but he left without addressing the washer area. Later, the tenant called to report that the washer area was still clogged. She had asked the plumber if she should test the washer to ensure it was unclogged, but he said it wasn't necessary. Now, when I asked him to return and fix it, he's making excuses about the washer not being installed correctly and claiming he can't run a snake through it. I told him that his job was to unclog the drain, not to make a partial attempt. Instead of resolving the issue, he’s threatening to place a lien on my property unless I pay him.

I want to understand how does this lien work and this one example, I have such few examples with handyman, plumbers etc  they always keep threatening if you don't pay us we will put lien on your property. 

My question is:

- Is it that easy to put to lien on the property?
- There should small claims court etc before going to full fledge lien
- Any suggestion, how to avoid such situations? (I normally find technician from thumbtack, google, next door). BTW most of such issue has happen to me when I have hired someone from next door. 

Thanks