ilemi

So you're looking for your next home in Lagos and don't know where to start when it comes to rules, regulations, and paperwork? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Check off your rental to-do list with us. Everything you need to know and none of the stuff you don't.

1. Understand Lagos Tenancy Law

Renting in Lagos is regulated by the Lagos Tenancy Law. Here's what every tenant should know:

Tenancy Agreement Must Be in Writing: Tenants are entitled to a written agreement, especially for leases longer than six months. It should clearly state the terms of the lease and obligations of both parties.
Advance Rent is Capped: Landlords are not legally allowed to collect more than one year’s rent in advance for residential properties. In many cases, it’s advisable not to pay more than three months in advance to stay within fair practice.
Receipts Are Mandatory: Every rent payment must be documented with a receipt stating the amount, date, landlord’s and tenant’s names, property address, and period covered.

2. Documents You Need to Rent Successfully

To secure a verified property through ilemi, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

Valid Government-Issued ID
– Options: National ID Card, International Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card.
Completed Rental Application Form
– This includes personal details, employment status, and rental history.
Proof of Income
– Recent pay slips, employer salary confirmation letter, or bank statements from the last 3–6 months.
Letter of Employment
– Indicates current position, employer’s name, and monthly or annual income.
Guarantor Information (if applicable)
– Some landlords may request a guarantor form, copy of guarantor’s ID, and contact information.
Proof of Marital Status (if applicable)
– Requested occasionally for documentation or tenancy composition purposes.
Security Deposit Receipt and Property Condition Report
– Usually equivalent to one month’s rent, with supporting documentation (photos or videos) to capture the condition of the apartment before moving in.

3. What to Look for in a Tenancy Agreement

A valid tenancy agreement under Lagos law should contain the following:

Full names and addresses of both landlord and tenant
Property address and description (e.g. flat, 2-bedroom, etc.)
Lease duration: start and end dates
Rent amount, frequency of payment, and payment method
Security deposit amount and conditions for refund
Maintenance responsibilities (who handles what)
Notice period for termination or renewal (e.g. one month for monthly rent, six months for yearly tenancy)
Penalties for breach, late payment terms, and other legal provisions
Dispute resolution method (e.g. mediation, legal action)

We recommend that tenants carefully review the agreement and, where possible, consult a legal professional before signing.

4. Your Legal Rights as a Tenant in Lagos

Right to Quiet Enjoyment: Once rent is paid and agreement signed, you have the legal right to enjoy the property undisturbed.
Right to a Habitable Property: The landlord is obligated to provide a space that is safe, functional, and livable.
Right to Proper Eviction Process: You cannot be evicted without proper notice. Depending on your rent frequency:

Weekly tenants: 7 days’ notice
Monthly tenants: 1 month’s notice
Yearly tenants: 6 months’ notice
Fixed-term tenants: No quit notice if the tenancy expires naturally, but a 7-day recovery notice is still required before court action.

Right to Challenge Unfair Rent Increases: If a landlord attempts a sudden or unreasonable rent hike, tenants can challenge it through legal channels, especially if the property is in poor condition or the increase is unjustified.

5. How ilemi Helps You Rent Safely

ilemi is a property listing platform that manually screens all listings to eliminate fraud and ensure trust.

With ilemi, you get:

Verified Listings: Every property is checked to confirm it exists and is legally available for rent.
Vetted Landlords and Agents: We validate landlord identities and their authority to lease the property.
Legal Review of Agreements: We ensure the tenancy agreement includes key legal clauses that protect you (concierge service only).
Fraud Prevention: Our screening process catches fake listings, identity scams, and illegal rent demands.

Quick Tenant Checklist

✅	Government-issued ID (NIN, Passport, Driver's License)
✅	Rental application form
✅	Proof of income (pay slips, bank statements)
✅	Employment letter
✅	Guarantor information (if requested)
✅	Proof of marital status (if applicable)
✅	Security deposit and property inspection report
✅	Signed tenancy agreement

Final Tips for Renting in Lagos

Never pay for a property you haven’t physically inspected.
Don’t pay rent into a personal account without verification.
Document the property condition when you move in. Take photos or videos to avoid future disputes over your deposit.
Keep a copy of everything:your receipts, agreement, and any communication with the landlord.

At ilemi, we know you're not just renting a space, you're finding your next home. That's why we make sure you're renting smart, safe, and secure. From relocating to upgrading, we make the process transparent and stress-free.

Check out the properties we have available to rent right now, and find your dream home in Lagos.