What is prohibited in relation to a contractor serving a preliminary 20-day notice?

The prohibition against threatening or retaliating against a contractor who has served a preliminary 20-day notice is rooted in the intent to protect the contractor’s rights and ensure they can perform their work without fear of undue pressure or repercussions. The preliminary 20-day notice serves as an important legal tool that informs property owners and general contractors of the contractor's intent to claim a lien if payment issues arise. By prohibiting threats or retaliation, the law aims to create a fair and safe environment for contractors to assert their rights under lien laws. This helps maintain compliance with statutory requirements and supports the integrity of the construction process.

The other options relate to activities that do not directly infringe on the protections afforded to a contractor under the preliminary notice statute. For instance, providing technical support, ensuring timely payment, and withholding project materials do not constitute threats or retaliation; rather, they may pertain to the business relationships and responsibilities among the parties involved in a construction project. Understanding this framework is crucial in recognizing the legal protections available to contractors in Arizona's construction law.