Which type of lien is described as an involuntary lien?

An involuntary lien is a type of lien that is imposed on a property without the consent of the property owner. A mechanics lien, which is the correct answer, arises when a contractor or subcontractor has not been paid for work performed on a property. This lien serves to protect the rights of those who labor on or furnish materials to a property, ensuring they have recourse to claim payment. It is filed against the property and can lead to foreclosure if the debt is not satisfied, which reinforces its nature as an involuntary lien.

In contrast, a mortgage is a voluntary lien created with the consent of the property owner when they borrow money to purchase the property, and a leasehold typically refers to a tenant's interest in real estate rather than a lien. A warranty deed is a document that conveys property and guarantees that the grantor has the right to transfer it; it does not pertain to liens at all. Thus, the mechanics lien stands out as the clear embodiment of an involuntary lien in this context.