Spradlin v. Jim Walter Homes, Inc.

Jim Walter Homes built a new home on Spradlin's homestead and placed a mechanic's lien on the property. Spradlin challenged the lien, arguing it violated Texas constitutional protections for homestead property. The Texas Supreme Court ruled that strict procedural protections (written consent from both spouses, waiting periods, etc.) only apply to repairs or renovations of existing homes—not new construction. For new home construction, a builder only needs a written contract to secure a valid mechanic's lien on a homestead.