Buying or renting property in Lagos is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make. Problems with a property are far cheaper to find before you pay than after. This guide explains the checks we carry out before a listing goes live, and the further checks we recommend before you commit.
1. Confirming who is selling or letting
We start by confirming that the person offering the property has the right to do so. That means matching their identity to the name on the title documents, or seeing a written authority from the owner if an agent or family representative is acting for them. Where a company owns the property, we ask for its registration details from the Corporate Affairs Commission.
2. Reviewing the title documents
We ask to see copies of the documents that prove ownership, such as a Certificate of Occupancy, Governor’s Consent, registered Deed of Assignment, or excision and gazette details for family or community land. We check that the names, dates, plot details and survey numbers are consistent across all documents.
3. Searching the official records
Copies can be forged, so the documents must be checked against the official records. For serious buyers, we can arrange or recommend:
- A search at the Lagos State Land Registry to confirm the registered owner and any mortgages, caveats or other interests recorded against the title.
- Charting of the survey plan at the Office of the Surveyor-General to confirm the land’s exact location and whether it falls under government acquisition, a road, drainage channel or other setback.
- Checks for pending court cases involving the property where there is any sign of a dispute.
4. Physical inspection
We encourage every client to inspect the property in person, or by live video call if they are abroad. An inspection confirms the property exists, matches the photos and description, and lets you speak to neighbours or occupants. For buildings, we look at the general condition, access roads, drainage and whether the property is occupied.
5. Planning and building approvals
For completed buildings and off-plan projects, we ask whether the development has the required planning permit and building approvals. Unapproved buildings, or buildings that differ from their approved plans, can face sealing or demolition by the Lagos State authorities.
6. Price and payment terms
We compare the asking price with similar properties in the same area and make sure the payment terms, deposit and any instalment plan are written down clearly. We advise that payments should go to an account in the owner’s or developer’s registered name, never in cash and never to a third party.
What due diligence cannot do
No check removes every risk. Our review is meant to help you make an informed decision. It does not replace your own lawyer’s advice or a formal legal search. Clients who want extra protection can ask about optional title insurance, which can cover certain title defects. Cover, terms and eligibility depend on the insurer and the property.
Need help?
Propslisting can help you check a property before you commit. Contact our team or message us on WhatsApp, and browse current listings.
This guide is general information only and is not legal advice. Every property and transaction is different, so always get independent legal advice before you pay or sign anything.
