The proposed Lagos State Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill 2025 is set to fundamentally reshape the relationship between landlords and tenants, ensuring fairness and transparency. Here are the three most critical changes that will affect your wallet and your peace of mind:
1. The End of Crippling Advance Rent Demands (The Financial Game-Changer)
For years, many tenants have been forced to pay two or even three years of rent upfront, plunging them into debt. This ends now.
The Compelling Catch
Offering or accepting rent payments above these new legal limits is an offense! Violators risk:
• A ₦1 Million Fine.
• Three Months in Prison.
• Or Both.
Action Point: Renters, this provision offers critical relief. Landlords, ensure your lease agreements are immediately updated to reflect the one-year cap to avoid severe penalties.
2. Agents’ Fees Are Finally Capped & Controlled (The Transparency Rule)
The days of unregistered agents committing fraud, double-renting, and charging arbitrary 10% or higher commissions are over. The bill introduces mandatory, strict oversight.
The Compelling Catch
Any agent who violates these remittance or fee rules faces stiff legal punishment: up to a ₦1 Million Fine, Two Years in Prison, or Both.
Action Point: Renter, always ask to see an agent’s LASRERA registration certificate. This simple step is now your primary defense against fraud and inflated commissions.
3. Protection Against Unfair Rent Hikes (The Judicial Shield)
You no longer have to accept a sudden, massive rent increase without recourse.
• Your Right to Challenge: While the bill does not fix rental prices, it empowers tenants to challenge any “unreasonable” or unjustified rent hike in court. The court will assess the increase based on the property’s circumstances.
• No Eviction During Dispute: The most significant protection? A landlord cannot evict a tenant while a legal case challenging the rent increase is still ongoing.
Action Point: This prevents landlords from using eviction threats to force tenants to accept unreasonable increases, offering tenants critical leverage.
What Part of This Bill Affects YOU The Most?
Are you a Landlord? How will the one-year rent cap affect your investment planning?
Are you a Renter? Are you celebrating the new legal protection against unfair hikes and agent fraud?
This bill is poised to professionalize Lagos real estate. Stay informed and ensure your next transaction is fully compliant!
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