From tenancy agreements to receipt culture, the legal landmines most renters step on every year. Finding a house in Lagos can feel like winning the lottery. After weeks or even months of searching, you finally find a place that fits your budget and seems perfect. In the excitement of securing the apartment, many tenants rush through the process without paying attention to some important details.
Unfortunately, this is where problems often begin.
Many landlords and agents focus on getting the deal completed, but there are certain things they may not openly discuss with tenants. As a result, many renters find themselves dealing with unexpected charges, disagreements, and legal issues after moving in.
Before you sign any document or make any payment, here are five things Lagos landlords don't always tell you.
1. Read the Tenancy Agreement Before Signing Anything
One of the biggest mistakes tenants make is signing tenancy agreements without reading the terms and conditions.
Many people assume the agreement contains standard information, so they quickly sign and move on. Later, they discover clauses they never knew existed. These clauses may cover rent increases, maintenance responsibilities, notice periods, service charges, or restrictions on how the property can be used.
Always take your time to read every section of the agreement. If there's anything you don't understand, ask questions or seek legal advice before signing.
2. Some Charges May Not Be Clearly Explained Upfront
The rent amount is usually the first thing tenants focus on, but it's often not the only payment involved.
There may be agency fees, legal fees, caution fees, service charges, or other costs that weren't fully discussed during the initial conversation. This can significantly increase the total amount you need to pay.
Before making any payment, ask for a complete breakdown of all charges associated with the property.
3. Receipt Culture Doesn't Always Tell the Full Story
Many tenants believe that once they receive a receipt, everything is automatically settled.
While receipts are important, they don't always explain all the rights and obligations attached to your tenancy. A receipt confirms payment, but it doesn't replace a tenancy agreement or protect you from clauses you may have agreed to unknowingly.
Keep copies of all receipts, agreements, and communication related to the property.
4. Maintenance Responsibilities May Fall on You
Many renters assume the landlord will handle every repair in the building.
In reality, some tenancy agreements place certain maintenance responsibilities on tenants. Issues such as plumbing repairs, electrical faults, or minor property maintenance may become your responsibility depending on the agreement you signed.
This is another reason why reading the terms and conditions carefully is so important.
5. Verbal Promises Are Not Always Binding
During house inspections, tenants are sometimes promised things like security improvements, renovations, water supply upgrades, or repairs.
The problem is that verbal promises can be difficult to prove later.
If a landlord or agent promises to fix something before or after you move in, try to get it documented in writing. This can help prevent misunderstandings in the future.
How to Get Advice Fast
If you're unsure about a tenancy agreement, unexpected charges, landlord disputes, or any rental-related issue, don't wait until the problem becomes bigger.
Seek advice before signing documents or making major payments. A quick review of the agreement by a legal professional can help you identify potential issues and understand your rights as a tenant.
Renting a property in Lagos doesn't have to be stressful. By reading the terms and conditions carefully, asking questions, and getting advice when needed, you can avoid many of the legal landmines that catch renters every year. Download the Qwikkie app to have easy access to the right legal professional.
