Lagos State Updates Tenancy Law to Strengthen Tenant Rights and Regulate Landlord Conduct
By Exponent News Akure May 25, 2025
The Lagos State Government has revised its Tenancy Law to offer greater protection for tenants and establish clearer guidelines for landlords and property agents. The updated law introduces stricter regulations and penalties aimed at ensuring fairness in rental agreements and housing practices across the state.
Key Highlights of the New Tenancy Law:
1. Advance Rent Limitations:
Landlords are now prohibited from collecting more than three months’ rent in advance from existing tenants. Likewise, tenants are barred from paying more than this limit. Violators risk fines of up to ₦100,000 or imprisonment for up to three months.
2. Mandatory Issuance of Rent Receipts:
Landlords are required to issue detailed rent receipts, including payment date, names of both parties, property address, amount paid, and the rental period. Non-compliance attracts a ₦10,000 fine.
3. Cap on Tenancy Agreement Fees:
The law reaffirms that tenancy agreement fees must not exceed 10% of the annual rent. Overcharging by landlords or agents is a legal offence under the revised law.
4. Notice Periods for Termination:
In cases without a written agreement, standardized notice periods have been set:
Weekly tenants: 1-week notice
Monthly tenants: 1-month notice
Quarterly or half-yearly tenants: 3-months notice
Yearly tenants: 6-months notice
If a monthly tenant defaults on rent for three months, landlords can seek repossession through the courts.
5. Strengthened Tenant Rights:
Tenants are entitled to:
Reasonable privacy
Freedom from undue disturbance
Exclusive possession of their rented space
Use of shared areas for lawful activities
Tenants who make improvements with the landlord’s written approval may be eligible for compensation if the tenancy ends.
6. Legal Dispute Resolution:
All tenancy disputes are to be handled by the High Court or Magistrates’ Court within the appropriate jurisdiction.
7. Ban on Unlawful Evictions:
The law strictly prohibits landlords from evicting tenants without legal process. Forced or self-help evictions are punishable under the new provisions.
The updated Lagos Tenancy Law is part of the state’s broader efforts to ensure housing justice, curb exploitation, and enhance transparency in landlord-tenant relationships.
