Opinion ID: 2072758
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Lien of Stern Drywall, Inc.

Text: Stern Drywall was under contract with First Minnesota to install gypsum drywall and insulation in the project. Stern's subcontract contained an in writing provision for extra work identical to that quoted above. At trial Stern introduced evidence of two written change orders, one for $1,320 and one for $1,206. A number of other extras were also claimed by Stern on the basis of an exhibit and the testimony of Lorin Stern, president of the company, as to oral authorizations. The trial court granted a lien for $2,823.30, which included all the claimed extras, whether authorized in writing or not. The evidence also showed that Stern had been paid $773.70 in excess of the basic contract price of $120,000. For the same reasons given above with respect to Minnesota Valley, the amount of Stern's lien must be reduced. Written authorization was proved for $2,526 in extras, from which must be subtracted the $773.70 to arrive at a valid lien of $1,752.30. The evidence supports the trial court's finding only to that extent, requiring a reduction of its judgment in favor of Stern.