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Legal guides written by Adeola Oyinlade & Co:
Browse our 8 legal questions about Landlord & Tenant in Nigeria and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
The Landlord and Tenant Law in Lagos, Nigeria is governed by the "Tenancy Law of Lagos State (2011)". This law administrates the relationship between a landlord and tenant in terms of leasing and rent control in Lagos. It sets the guidelines for matters such as notice of quit, terms of agreement, security deposits, repair and maintenance responsibilities, and eviction procedures.
Despite regulations, disputes between landlords and tenants are common. Legal issues can often arise in circumstances such as eviction, damage to property, non-payment of rent, increase in rent, and disagreement on terms of tenancy agreement. In these situations, having legal representation is critical to protect your rights, whether you are the landlord or the tenant. A knowledgeable attorney can provide advice, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary.
The Tenancy Law of Lagos State sets various guidelines. Notably, the law stipulates the length of notice to be given in the event of a termination of a tenancy agreement. This period is typically six months for a yearly tenant, one month for a monthly tenant, and one week for a weekly tenant. The law also mandates a written agreement for any lease term above three years. This agreement must detail the terms, including rent amount, payment mode, and tenancy duration. The landlord is legally prohibited from increasing rent arbitrarily.
No, under the Tenancy law, a landlord needs valid ground to evict a tenant, and is required to give a requisite notice period.
No, any increase in rent must be reasonable and it must be agreed to by the tenant. Arbitrary increments in rent are not supported by the law.
While it is recommended to have a written agreement for clarity, in the absence of one, the law governs the terms of the tenancy based on established practices.
This depends on the terms of the tenancy agreement. Some agreements might require the tenant to cover minor repairs, while major repairs are typically the landlord's responsibility.
Yes, the tenant can withhold the rent in case of major maintenance lapses or failure to provide agreed-upon facilities. However, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer before taking such action.
The Lagos State Ministry of Justice offers resources and support for landlords and tenants. The Citizens' Mediation Centre (CMC) under the Ministry provides a free dispute resolution mechanism, ideal for landlords and tenants facing issues with their agreement.
If you find yourself needing legal advice regarding Landlord & Tenant laws, it's important to take action quickly. Seek the advice of a reputable attorney specializing in this field. Make sure that you understand your rights and responsibilities under the Tenancy Law of Lagos State, and consult with your lawyer before taking any major actions.
