The Lagos State Government has reminded landlords and agents that they cannot charge more than 10% of the yearly rent as tenancy agreement fees. This is the highest amount allowed by law.
Barrister Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Housing, shared this during a press meeting held in Ikeja.
She explained that the Lagos Tenancy Law clearly says landlords and agents should not ask for more than 10% of the annual rent as fees. Asking for more than this is against the law.
Many residents have complained about landlords and agents charging too much. These fees are often very high and hard for people to pay. Lagos residents should know they can refuse these fees and report those who charge too much.
Lagos is growing fast because many people are moving from rural areas to the city. This causes housing problems. Sadly, some dishonest people take advantage of this and charge unfair fees.
Even with these problems, the government is serious about fixing the housing sector. They are working hard to protect Lagos residents from fraud and unfair fees.
The government also works with real estate agent groups that follow the rules. The people charging too much are usually not part of these official groups.
If anyone is charged illegal fees, they should report it to the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA). Reports can be made through LASRERA’s Facebook and Instagram pages (lasrera1) or on X (formerly Twitter) @lasrera.
The government encourages everyone to use these reporting channels. This will help make sure the tenancy law is followed and make housing fair for all Lagos residents.