Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Nigeria

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Founded in 1976
50 people in their team
English
Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL) is a leading world class legal solutions provider with clients in diverse sectors of the Nigerian economy. Our diversified skills ensure that we provide innovative legal solutions to our clients. At OAL, we are always devoted to our EPIC values: our excellence,...
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Adeola Oyinlade & Co
Lagos, Nigeria

Founded in 2014
21 people in their team
English
Adeola Oyinlade & Co. is a leading full-service law firm with its head office in Lagos, Nigeria. As a leading law firm in Nigeria, we offer a variety of legal services to a vast range of national and foreign clients.The firm’s corporate, commercial and business advisory expertise covers...

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Ren Attorneys

Ren Attorneys

30 minutes Free Consultation
Abuja, Nigeria

Founded in 2015
5 people in their team
English
REN ATTORNEYS is a Law Firm that specialises in Family Law, Company Law and Immigration.Our FAMILY LAW services encompass a wide range of matters, including:Divorce and SeparationChild Custody and VisitationChild and Spousal SupportProperty DivisionPaternity ActionsAdoption and...
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Highlaw Chambers

Highlaw Chambers

15 minutes Free Consultation
Abuja, Nigeria

Founded in 2021
5 people in their team
English
Hausa
Yoruba
Highlaw Chambers is a premier Nigerian law firm at the forefront of delivering innovative legal solutions. We are renowned for our dedication and commitment, we specialize in empowering clients across various sectors to disrupt industries and achieve transformative outcomes. Our expertise spans a...
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Moland Partners
Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Moland Partners is an advisory and consultancy law firm made up of a team of highly driven professionals with in-depth knowledge of corporate and commercial law, real estate advisory, corporate governance and immigration. Our expertise positions us to offer the most practical solution to challenges...
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Gems Solicitors Nigeria

Gems Solicitors Nigeria

30 minutes Free Consultation
Ibadan, Nigeria

Founded in 2021
2 people in their team
English
The Law Office of Gems Solicitors Nigeria is a full- service Ibadan based law firm with expertise in the areas of Real Estate, Business Sales and Acquisitions, Tax as well as Intellectual Properties and General Legal Consultancy.WELCOMEThe Law Office of Gems Solicitors Nigeria is a full-service...
Hans Offia & Associates
Lagos, Nigeria

Founded in 2017
25 people in their team
English
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...
Covchambers
Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
English
CovChambersOur mission is to establish a world class, full service Nigerian law firm distinguished by its premium service. We incorporate a rich blend of traditional legal practice with the dynamism required to satisfy the constantly evolving dynamism of business in our result driven professional...
Resolution Law Firm
Lekki, Nigeria

Founded in 2014
14 people in their team
English
ABOUT RESOLUTION LAW FIRMResolution Law Firm, which ranks among the leading legal consultants in Nigeria was founded by a group of passionate, hardworking and honest lawyers committed to the excellent delivery of legal services in Nigeria.Resolution Law Firm is based in Nigeria and the firm...
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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 Nigeria

Landlord & Tenant law in Nigeria governs the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in relation to rental properties. This body of law covers issues such as tenancy agreements, rent payments, eviction procedures, and property maintenance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer to assist you in situations such as lease drafting, disputes over rent payments, illegal evictions, property damage, or breach of tenancy agreements. A lawyer can help protect your rights and provide legal guidance throughout the landlord-tenant relationship.

Local Laws Overview

In Nigeria, the key aspects of landlord-tenant law include the Tenancy Law which dictates the rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants, the recovery of premises, and the procedure for eviction. It is important to be familiar with these laws to ensure compliance and protect your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord increase rent arbitrarily?

No, a landlord cannot increase rent arbitrarily. The rent increase must be reasonable and in accordance with the provisions of the tenancy agreement or applicable law.

2. What are the rights of tenants regarding property maintenance?

Tenants have the right to live in a habitable premises and landlords are obligated to maintain the property in good condition, including repairs of essential facilities such as plumbing, electricity, and security.

3. How can a tenant terminate a lease agreement?

A tenant can terminate a lease agreement by giving the required notice period as stipulated in the tenancy agreement or under the law. Failure to provide proper notice may result in legal consequences.

4. Can a tenant be evicted without due process?

No, a tenant cannot be evicted without due process. Landlords must follow the legal procedures for eviction, including serving the tenant with a notice of eviction and obtaining a court order for possession.

5. What remedies are available to a tenant in case of landlord harassment?

If a tenant is being harassed by the landlord, they can seek legal recourse by filing a complaint with the appropriate authorities or consulting a lawyer to enforce their rights under the tenancy agreement or landlord-tenant law.

6. Are there restrictions on the security deposit that a landlord can request?

Yes, landlords are limited by law on the amount of security deposit they can request from tenants. The deposit should not exceed a certain percentage of the annual rent and must be refundable at the end of the tenancy.

7. Can a landlord enter the rental property without the tenant's permission?

A landlord cannot enter the rental property without the tenant's permission except in cases of emergency or with proper notice as required by law. Unauthorized entry by the landlord may constitute a breach of the tenant's privacy rights.

8. How can a tenant dispute a rent increase by the landlord?

If a tenant disputes a rent increase by the landlord, they can seek legal advice to determine if the increase is lawful and challenge it through negotiation or legal action if necessary. It is important to review the lease agreement and relevant laws to understand the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

9. What are the legal consequences of breaking a lease agreement?

If a tenant breaks a lease agreement, they may be liable for damages, forfeit their security deposit, or face legal action by the landlord for breach of contract. It is advisable to consult a lawyer to understand the legal implications of breaking a lease and explore options for resolution.

10. Can a landlord refuse to return the security deposit at the end of the tenancy?

If a landlord refuses to return the security deposit at the end of the tenancy without valid reasons, the tenant can seek legal redress by filing a complaint with the relevant authorities or pursuing a legal claim for the return of the deposit. It is important to document the condition of the property at the beginning and end of the tenancy to support the claim for the return of the deposit.

Additional Resources

For more information on Landlord & Tenant law in Nigeria, you can refer to the Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law, legal aid clinics, the Nigerian Bar Association, or government websites that provide guidance on landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in landlord-tenant matters in Nigeria, it is recommended to consult a qualified lawyer with experience in this area of law. A lawyer can provide legal advice, representation in court, and help resolve disputes amicably between landlords and tenants. Be sure to gather all relevant documents and information related to your case before seeking legal assistance.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Nigeria 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 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.