Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Owerri

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Free Guide to Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer

Free PDF download

Download

Find lawyers
Nigeria
Owerri
Real Estate
Landlord & Tenant

Not sure how to proceed?

Let us find the right lawyers for you.

Free. Takes 2 min.

List of the best lawyers in Owerri, Nigeria

CHAMAN LAW FIRM

Owerri, Nigeria

Founded in 2019

15 people in their team

English

CHAMAN LAW FIRM is a world class and one of the leading and top law firms in Nigeria. In Support of clients on substantial matters, we deploy well-configured attorney teams with domestic and international experience and expertise. We are known for excellence in the practice of law and...

View profile

AS SEEN ON

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

ASK A FREE QUESTION

View all

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Owerri, Nigeria

Landlord & Tenant law in Owerri, Nigeria governs the legal relationship between landlords and their tenants. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, and aims to ensure fair and harmonious rental agreements.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer can be helpful in several situations related to Landlord & Tenant matters. Some common reasons why you may need a lawyer include:

Disputes over eviction or wrongful termination of tenancy
Unfair rent increases or illegal charges
Damages or repairs disputes
Breach of contract by either party
Negotiating and reviewing rental agreements

Local Laws Overview

Owerri, Nigeria adheres to the Lagos Tenancy Law, which governs Landlord & Tenant relationships in the state. Here are some key aspects of the local laws that are particularly relevant:

Security Deposit: Landlords may require tenants to provide a security deposit, but it must not exceed six months' rent.
Rent Payment: Rent is generally paid monthly in advance.
Eviction Process: Evicting a tenant requires a court order after providing a written notice stating the grounds for eviction.
Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for maintaining a safe and habitable living environment for tenants.
Dispute Resolution: Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or by filing a case in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?

No, under the Lagos Tenancy Law, rent increases must be reasonable and cannot exceed ten percent annually or once every two years, depending on the length of the tenancy agreement.

2. Can a landlord evict a tenant without a court order?

No, a landlord cannot evict a tenant without obtaining a court order, regardless of the circumstances. Proper legal procedures must be followed.

3. Can a tenant withhold rent for necessary repairs?

If the landlord neglects to carry out necessary repairs, the tenant may be entitled to withhold rent until the issues are resolved. However, it is advisable to seek legal advice before taking such action.

4. Can a landlord enter the rental property without permission?

No, a landlord should not enter the rental property without the tenant's permission, except in emergency situations. Tenants have the right to privacy and peaceful possession of the property.

5. What should I do if I have a dispute with my landlord or tenant?

If you have a dispute with your landlord or tenant, it is recommended to initially try to resolve the issue through communication and negotiation. If unsuccessful, you can consider seeking mediation services or consult with a lawyer for legal advice.

Additional Resources

Below are some resources, governmental bodies, and organizations that can be helpful for someone seeking legal advice related to Landlord & Tenant matters in Owerri, Nigeria:

Nigerian Bar Association - Owerri Branch: http://owerri.nbabar.org
Legal Aid Council of Nigeria: +234 703 594 0341
Owerri State High Court: Contact the local court registry for assistance

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in Landlord & Tenant matters in Owerri, Nigeria, it is advisable to consult with a licensed lawyer experienced in this area of law. They can guide you through the specific details of your situation and provide appropriate legal advice.

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