Why Every Tenant Should Know the Tenancy Law in Their State

By
Image
Most tenants sign rental agreements without ever reading or knowing their state’s tenancy law. Unfortunately, this lack of awareness often leads to exploitation, unfair eviction, or payment disputes . In states like Lagos, Abuja, and Rivers, tenancy laws are in place to protect both tenants and landlords. 1. What Are Tenancy Laws? Tenancy laws are state-specific regulations that outline: Rights and obligations of tenants and landlords Processes for rent review and eviction Guidelines for property maintenance and dispute resolution Example: The Lagos Tenancy Law 2011 forbids landlords from demanding more than one year’s rent in advance from new tenants in certain property categories. 2. Why It Matters for Tenants Protection Against Exploitation: Helps you know if charges or requests from a landlord are legal. Eviction Protection: Understand legal eviction processes, so you are not illegally locked out. Fair Rent Reviews: Know your rights when landlords attem...
Post a Comment

How Tenants Get Trapped by Fake Landlords in Nigeria — And How to Avoid It

By

 A Dream Home, A Nightmare Reality

Chika, a young professional in Lagos, thought she had struck gold: a beautiful mini-flat in Surulere, affordable and close to work. The landlord was friendly, warm, and even gave her a “discount” if she paid one year’s rent upfront.

She hurried to make the payment. He provided her with a receipt and promised the keys in fourteen days, explaining that the plumber needed to flush the canal to improve water flow. But when she came back, another family was already living there. The so-called landlord? A fraud who had posed as the owner, collected multiple rents from different people, and disappeared.


How Common Is This in Nigeria?

Unfortunately, Chika’s story is far from unique:

  • Fake landlords and rental scams are among the top 3 property fraud issues in Lagos (Guardian Nigeria).
  • 4 in 10 Nigerians have either been defrauded or know someone who was scammed when seeking accommodation (NOIPolls).
  • The Nigerian real estate sector saw over ₦17.67 billion lost to fraud in 2023 (BusinessDay).
  • In 2024, total fraud losses surged by 196% to ₦52.26 billion (Nairametrics).

Why Fake Landlord Scams Work

  1. No proper property documentation by genuine landlords.
  2. Desperation from tenants during Nigeria’s housing shortage.
  3. Lack of verification culture, tenants often trust verbal agreements or unofficial receipts.

How to Verify a Landlord

  1. Ask for title documents (C of O, Deed of Assignment, or Governor’s Consent).
  2. Confirm property ownership at the Land Registry.
  3. Demand a written tenancy agreement signed by both parties and a witness.
  4. Use verified estate agents or reputable property platforms.
  5. Never pay cash without official receipts linked to a legitimate entity.

Key Takeaway

Fake landlords prey on trust and urgency. Take time to verify before you pay. A quick check could save you a year’s rent and avoid eviction heartbreak.


Have you experienced a fake landlord or know someone who has? Share your story and tag me. Together, we can reduce rental scams in Nigeria.


Five steps to verify a landlord before paying rent


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How One Renter Lost Money to a Fake House Agent in Lekki — And What Every Nigerian Should Learn

By
Image
When a Dream Apartment Turns Into a Nightmare He was searching for a modest, well-lit two-bedroom in Lekki, tiled floors, reliable electricity, and within his budget. A crisp Instagram listing offered exactly that, and at a surprisingly low price. The agent seemed professional on the call, fast response, friendly, convincing. But then came the request: a ₦5,000 inspection fee paid upfront, even before he could step foot in the property . It sounded odd, but he went ahead and sent the money.
Read more