Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Ikeja
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List of the best lawyers in Ikeja, Nigeria
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
- 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
- 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?
- 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 Ikeja, Nigeria
Landlord and Tenant law in Ikeja, Nigeria is governed by various statutes, the most paramount of which is the Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2011. This law presides over matters related to rent, notice to quit, and the rights and duties of both landlords and tenants. Other relevant laws include the Recovery of Premises Law and various court decisions. This body of law aims to balance the rights, duties, and interests of landlords and tenants in a fair and equitable manner.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Common situations where you might require a lawyer include drafting and reviewing tenancy agreements, resolving landlord-tenant disputes, recovery of premises, eviction proceedings, and issues concerning rent increase or delays. Also, if your rights have been violated as a tenant or if you are a landlord seeking to understand your rights and responsibilities under the law, a lawyer's guidance would be invaluable.
Local Laws Overview
The Lagos State Tenancy Law 2011, which governs Ikeja, stipulates various provisions protecting both landlords and tenants. Landlords, for instance, are prohibited from increasing rent arbitrarily or evicting tenants without a court order. Tenants, on the other hand, are required to conduct themselves in a manner that does not constitute a nuisance and must comply with agreed payment terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much notice should a landlord give before eviction?
According to the Lagos State Tenancy Law, a landlord is required to give a tenant a written notice of at least a quarter's duration for tenants due for a year, and a week’s notice for a tenant due for a week, before eviction.
2. Can a landlord increase rent arbitrarily?
No, a landlord cannot increase rent arbitrarily. Rent increases must be reasonable and the tenant must be notified in writing at least three months before the increase takes effect.
3. What can be done if a tenant refuses to pay rent?
If a tenant refuses to pay rent, the landlord can issue a 'Notice to Quit', and if the tenant still refuses to pay or vacate the property, the landlord can initiate legal proceedings for recovery of the premises.
4. What are the responsibilities of a tenant to the rented property?
A tenant is expected to take good care of the property, refrain from causing damage, conduct themselves in a manner that does not disturb others, and comply with the terms of the tenancy agreement.
5. What can a tenant do if the landlord fails to repair damaged facilities?
If a landlord fails to effect necessary repairs on a rented property as stipulated in the tenancy agreement, the tenant can bring the issue before the Rent Tribunal, who will carry out an inspection and make the necessary orders.
Additional Resources
The Lagos State Real Estate Transaction Department (LASRETRAD) serves as a useful resource for matters related to real estate, including landlord-tenant issues. Additionally, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice offers legal assistance and advice regarding tenancy matters.
Next Steps
If you are in need of legal assistance regarding Landlord & Tenant issues in Ikeja, Nigeria, consider engaging a lawyer well versed in these matters. A lawyer can help analyze your situation, advise you on your rights and obligations, represent you in negotiations or court proceedings if necessary, and assist in ensuring that all dealings comply with relevant laws and regulations.
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.