Legal Aspects of Real Estate in Nigeria: What You Need to Know Before Buying or Owning Property

Investing in real estate is a significant decision that requires more than just finding the right location or negotiating the price. In Nigeria, the legal framework surrounding land ownership and property transactions is complex, and failing to adhere to it could result in financial loss or lengthy legal battles. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, understanding the legal aspects of buying and owning property in Nigeria is crucial to protecting your investment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key legal considerations to keep in mind before finalizing any property purchase in Nigeria.

1. Title Deeds: The Foundation of Property Ownership

One of the most critical elements in property ownership is the title deed—a legal document that serves as proof that you own the property. Without a proper title deed, your claim to the property could be contested, leading to serious legal implications. In Nigeria, different types of title deeds exist, each serving a unique purpose:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): This document is issued by the government and confers the right to use and occupy the land for a period of 99 years. It is one of the most recognized forms of land ownership, particularly in urban areas.
• Governor’s Consent: When you purchase land with an existing Certificate of Occupancy, the law requires the buyer to obtain the governor’s consent to validate the transaction. Without this consent, any sale or transfer of land is considered illegal under Nigerian law.
• Deed of Assignment: This document signifies the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. It is usually executed after the sale of land and must be properly registered with the land registry to be enforceable.

Before committing to any property purchase, ensure that the title deed is not only valid but also verifiable. Conduct a search at the land registry to confirm the legitimacy of the title. A failure to verify title documents could result in losing your investment if the property is found to have multiple claims of ownership.

2. Conducting Due Diligence: Safeguarding Your Purchase

Buying property without conducting due diligence is a major risk. Before signing any agreements or making payments, ensure that a proper search is conducted at the land registry to verify the legitimacy of the seller’s claim to the property. This search will help you determine whether the land has any encumbrances, such as unresolved legal disputes, unpaid taxes, or government acquisition.

To conduct due diligence effectively:

• Engage a qualified lawyer: Real estate transactions in Nigeria often involve complex legal issues. A competent lawyer will guide you through the process and ensure that your purchase is free from risks.
• Conduct a survey: It’s essential to physically inspect the land to ensure it aligns with the description in the documents. A land surveyor can help verify boundaries and identify any issues with the property, such as encroachments.
• Verify the status of the land: Some land may be subject to government acquisition or earmarked for public purposes like road expansion or infrastructure projects. Buying such land could lead to a loss of ownership without compensation.

3. Understanding Property Taxes and Levies

Owning real estate in Nigeria comes with ongoing financial obligations in the form of taxes and levies. These taxes are imposed by both state and local governments, and failure to comply can result in penalties or, in extreme cases, the forfeiture of your property. Key taxes that property owners should be aware of include:

• Land Use Charge: This is an annual tax levied on property owners in urban areas, combining ground rent, tenement rates, and neighborhood improvement charges into one payment. The amount varies depending on the location and size of the property.
• Capital Gains Tax (CGT): When you sell a property for more than you paid for it, you’re required to pay capital gains tax, which is currently 10% of the net gains. This tax is applicable whether the sale involves residential or commercial property.
• Withholding Tax: If you earn rental income from your property, you may be subject to withholding tax, which is deducted at the point of payment. The rate varies depending on whether the tenant is an individual or a corporate entity.

Understanding these taxes and paying them on time is essential to avoiding penalties that can erode your investment returns.

4. Government Approvals and Permits

Before you begin any construction, ensure that you’ve obtained all necessary government approvals and permits. Building without proper approval can result in demolition or heavy fines from regulatory authorities. In Lagos State, for instance, the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) oversees building regulations, ensuring that structures comply with zoning and urban planning laws.

Key approvals include:

• Building Plan Approval: Before construction, you must submit your building plans to the relevant authorities for approval. This ensures that your project adheres to safety, zoning, and environmental regulations.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): For larger developments, an EIA may be required to assess the environmental implications of your project, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.

Failure to secure these permits could lead to costly legal battles and potentially the loss of your property.

5. Navigating the Land Use Act and Zoning Laws

In Nigeria, land ownership is governed by the Land Use Act of 1978, which vests all land in the government. Under this law, individuals can only hold land through a leasehold system, usually in the form of a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). The government reserves the right to revoke the lease if the land is not being used in accordance with the terms of the lease.

Moreover, zoning laws dictate how land in certain areas can be used. Some areas are designated strictly for residential use, while others may allow commercial or mixed-use developments. Violating these zoning regulations can result in penalties or legal action by the government. For example, constructing a commercial building in a residential area without rezoning permission could lead to a forced demolition of the structure.

Conclusion

Navigating the legal landscape of real estate in Nigeria may seem daunting, but it is essential to ensuring that your investment is secure. From verifying title deeds and conducting due diligence to understanding tax obligations and securing government approvals, every step must be taken with care. At Round Peg Homes, we pride ourselves on ensuring that all properties in our portfolio come with valid legal documentation and comply with all necessary regulations.

By working with experienced professionals and taking the time to understand the legal aspects of property ownership, you can make informed decisions and protect your investment. For more information or assistance in acquiring legally sound property, reach out to us at Round Peg Homes. We are committed to making your real estate journey a smooth and secure one.

Visit our website at www.roundpeghomes.com or connect with us on social media:
Instagram: @roundpeghomesng
Facebook: @roundpeghomes
Twitter: @roundpeghomesng