Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Abakaliki

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Hans Offia & Associates

Hans Offia & Associates

30 minutes Free Consultation
Abakaliki, Nigeria

Founded in 2017
25 people in their team
Igbo
English
French
Hans Offia & Associates is a full-service dispute resolution and commercial law firm operating in three zones across Nigeria. Our law firm provides a wide range of legal services across a diverse practice area spectrum, offering cutting-edge solutions to our clients' legal challenges, be it in...
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Nigeria Landlord & Tenant Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 20 legal questions about Landlord & Tenant in Nigeria and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Tenants
Landlord & Tenant
You can issue a three-month notice since he has been paying as a half-yearly tenant. You can contact us further for more clarification
Tenant-landlord dispute
Landlord & Tenant
if you did not sign any agreement to that effect, you can choose to approach him calmly and discuss the matter. You can invite the Police if he still persists down this lane. But i tell you immediately you go legal be prepared to leave his premises as he would make life unbearable for you, but he would no longer lock you out.
What should I do as a tenant?
Landlord & Tenant
Here’s how you should approach this situation legally and practically:1. Check Your Tenancy Agreement (if any)If you signed a tenancy agreement in 2024, check whether electricity (NEPA) bills were included in the rent.If the landlord unilaterally stopped paying without notice, that’s a breach of tenancy terms.2. Notice for Rent IncreaseUnder Nigerian tenancy law (e.g., Recovery of Premises Act and similar state laws), a landlord must give proper notice before increasing rent — typically 3 to 6 months’ notice depending on the tenancy type.Increasing rent from ₦200,000 to ₦250,000 without proper notice is unlawful.3. Electricity Bill ResponsibilityIf the landlord previously paid but now shifts the burden to you without agreement or notice, you can challenge it.They must either reduce rent to reflect the new responsibility or formally notify you ahead of time.4. What You Should DoWrite to the landlord (keep it polite but firm) requesting clarification:Why was the rent increased without notice?Why did they stop covering NEPA bills?Document everything (messages, receipts, discussions).If the landlord refuses to address it:You can petition the rent tribunal or magistrate court for relief.In many states, tenants can seek a review of unfair rent increases and sudden charges. Call me on +2348155871155

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Abakaliki, Nigeria

The Landlord & Tenant law in Abakaliki, Nigeria governs the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants in relation to rental properties. It outlines the legal framework for the rental market, including rules for lease agreements, rent payments, property maintenance, eviction procedures, and dispute resolution.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While renting a property may seem straightforward, there are various scenarios where seeking legal advice from a lawyer specializing in Landlord & Tenant law can be essential. Some common situations where legal help may be needed include:

  • Signing or terminating a lease agreement
  • Dealing with eviction notices or disputes
  • Resolving issues related to rent payment, late fees, or security deposits
  • Ensuring compliance with local housing regulations
  • Seeking redress for property damage or negligence

Local Laws Overview

Below are some key aspects of the local laws in Abakaliki, Nigeria that are particularly relevant to Landlord & Tenant:

  • Rent Control: Abakaliki has specific guidelines and regulations regarding the maximum rent increase, ensuring fair treatment for tenants.
  • Property Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental property in habitable condition and making necessary repairs.
  • Eviction Process: There are legal procedures to be followed by landlords if they wish to evict a tenant, which may involve providing notice and obtaining a court order.
  • Tenant Rights: Tenants have the right to a safe and healthy living environment, privacy, and protection against unjust eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?

No, landlords in Abakaliki must adhere to the rent control guidelines set by the local authorities. Any rent increase must be within the limits set by the law.

Q: Can a landlord evict a tenant without proper notice?

No, landlords must provide proper written notice to the tenant and follow the legal eviction process. Evicting a tenant without proper notice is unlawful.

Q: Can a tenant withhold rent for maintenance issues?

In Abakaliki, tenants may only withhold rent if there are significant maintenance issues that affect habitability and the landlord has failed to address them despite proper notice. However, it is advisable to seek legal advice before taking such action.

Q: What are the tenant's rights regarding the return of the security deposit?

Upon the termination of the lease, the landlord is required to return the security deposit within a reasonable time, usually within 14 to 30 days, after deducting any legitimate deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

Q: What can a tenant do if they believe they are being treated unfairly by their landlord?

If a tenant believes they are being treated unfairly by their landlord, they can seek legal advice to understand their rights and explore options for dispute resolution, such as mediation or filing a complaint with the appropriate local authority.

Additional Resources

For further assistance with Landlord & Tenant matters in Abakaliki, Nigeria, these resources can be helpful:

  • Abakaliki State Tenancy Board
  • Abakaliki Legal Aid Council
  • Local property management companies or real estate associations

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance or have specific questions regarding Landlord & Tenant in Abakaliki, Nigeria, it is crucial to consult with an experienced lawyer specializing in this area of law. They can provide personalized advice based on your situation and help protect your rights as a landlord or tenant.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Abakaliki through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Landlord & Tenant, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Abakaliki, Nigeria - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.