ilemi

So, you’re about to rent in Lagos? Congratulations! Whether you’re already living in the city or making the big move back home from abroad, finding your first apartment here is a big step. But let’s be honest: renting in Lagos isn’t always straightforward. Between upfront payments, endless inspections, and hidden costs, the process can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

That’s where we come in. At ilemi, we know the Lagos rental market inside and out. Here are 10 things you should definitely keep in mind before signing your first lease.

1. Rent is Usually Paid in Bulk

Unlike many places where you can pay rent monthly, most Lagos landlords want one to two years upfront. Yes, it’s a lot! Some newer apartments or landlords are experimenting with quarterly or bi-annual payments, but these are still rare. Plan ahead so you’re not caught off guard when it’s time to commit.

2. Location is Everything

Lagos traffic is legendary. Living close to work, school, or business hubs like Victoria Island, Lekki, or Ikeja can save you hours on the road every day. The trade-off is cost: prime locations come with higher rents. If you’re okay with longer commutes, the mainland offers more budget-friendly options.

3. Don’t Forget the Extra Fees

Your rent isn’t the only thing you’ll be paying. Be ready for:

Agency fee: 5–10% of annual rent
Legal fee: 5–10% of annual rent
Caution fee: a refundable deposit (though not always refunded quickly)

Altogether, this can add 15–20% on top of the rent. Factor it into your budget so it doesn’t take you by surprise.

4. Inspections are a Must

No matter how nice a place looks online, nothing beats seeing it in person. If you’re abroad, ask a trusted friend, family member, or a verified service like ilemi to check it for you. Pay attention to things like:

Water supply (is there a borehole or constant supply?)
Power situation and backup options
Drainage (flooding is a real issue in some areas)
Quality of the finishing (doors, tiles, wiring)

5. Safety First

Security can vary from one street to the next in Lagos. Ask about gated access, CCTV, and whether the estate has active security patrols. A quick chat with current tenants can give you the real story. For diaspora renters, peace of mind is especially important when you don’t know the neighborhood firsthand.

6. Service Charges Can Add Up

If you’re renting in an estate or serviced apartment, you’ll likely pay a service charge for things like security, waste collection, and sometimes generator fuel. These fees can be almost as much as your rent, depending on the property. Always ask what’s included, how often the fees change, and whether you’ll get extra “diesel” or “power” bills.

7. Lagos Power is Unpredictable

Let’s be real: electricity supply here is far from stable. Most places rely on generators, inverters, or solar panels. Before you sign, find out if the property has backup power and how the costs are shared among tenants. If you’re renting in a building without a backup system, be prepared to spend extra on your own solution.

8. Watch Out for Flooding

If you’re new to Lagos, here’s something you might not know: some neighborhoods flood heavily during the rainy season. It’s worth visiting the area after a heavy rain or asking neighbors about the drainage. A cheap rent isn’t worth it if your street turns into a river every June.

9. Verify the Landlord and Documents

Scams are unfortunately common in Lagos real estate. Protect yourself by:

Asking to see proper documents, like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Having a lawyer review the tenancy agreement
Paying directly into the landlord’s account when possible

The good news is that ilemi takes this stress off your shoulders by verifying listings and connecting you only with trusted landlords.

10. Negotiation is Normal

Don’t be shy about negotiating. Lagos landlords often set the rent slightly higher, expecting tenants to bargain. Being polite but firm can save you a significant amount. If you’re paying upfront for a year or more, you have even more leverage.

Make Renting in Lagos Easier with ilemi

Renting in Lagos doesn’t have to be stressful. If you understand the hidden costs, check properties thoroughly, and ask the right questions, you’ll save yourself time, money, and frustration.

At ilemi, we’re all about making the process transparent and simple. Whether you’re in Lagos or planning your move from abroad, we’ve got verified listings, trusted inspections, and the right support to help you find a place you’ll love.

So when you’re ready to rent in Lagos, let ilemi take the guesswork out of the process.