10 Factors You Need To Consider Before Renting An Apartment In Lagos

By: Claudia Nwankwo

Lagos is the most populous state in Nigeria. According to World Population Review an estimated 21m people live in Lagos and over 100,000 people migrate to Lagos yearly. This is due to its commercial nature and as a result, Lagos is congested.

House hunting in Lagos is herculean but you can get-by if you know what you want and how to go about it. Of course, you would need to hire an estate agent/real estate broker to do the search work for you. 

Usually your budget determines the location and the kind of environment you are likely to move into. Whatever your budget/location there are basic factors that you need to put into consideration before moving to a new place.

Here are some factors you need to consider before making that move in Lagos:

Renovation: If you are moving into an old house, there may be damages though some landlord’s do some work on the house before taking new tenants but for your own good do a thorough check to determine if there is more work to be done and how much it would cost. It may be better to look for another one if the cost of renovation is too high or if the damages are beyond repair.

Proximity: Is it close to your work/business place/school? This is a major factor to consider in Lagos due to the heavy traffic congestion. You do not want to be a perpetual latecomer at work/school because you live very far away. It reduces stress for you, cost of transportation and saves you time. The traffic situation in Lagos is real. If you want to live well and be productive then you need to deliberately reduce time spent commuting. 

Water: Water supply is a basic and essential amenity. You would need to confirm that water runs in the compound or close to the house you intend to move into.

Space: Whether you own a car or not, having ample space is good for relaxation. It helps for ventilation too. Some houses in Lagos don't have good ventilation. Have you seen houses in some parts of Ebute-meta and Isale-Eko? You will wonder how people survive in such places. If you love yourself, "look before you leap". 

Security: Most streets in Lagos have gates that are shut between 12 midnight and 5am, guarded by local vigilantes for security reasons. Find out what security measures the area you are looking to live have in place. This is important for life and property. Most people park their cars on the street and keep their generators in the open; you need to be sure that the place is safe.

Noise Pollution: Look out for public facilities around the hood before making that move. If you are a family, you might not want to raise your kids around pubs, strip clubs etc. You certainly do not want to live in places close to factories, markets or religious facilities.

Utility Bills: Confirm what utilities you would pay for and when i.e. electricity, LAWMA etc. If it is an old house, ensure to ask about outstanding bills to avoid surprising yourself and if the house is new make sure the owner has settled all dues/charges with the necessary authorities before you pay.

Power Supply: We all know that power is a huge problem in Nigeria but some parts of Lagos are unlucky with power supply. Some areas have not "seen the light for years" and I kid you not.  Except you generate your own electricity or just do not mind, you may need to ask your potential neighbours about this.

Flooding: Be warned, a lot of places in Lagos experience flooding due to poor sand filling, poor drainage and other causes. Renting an apartment in dry season can be very deceptive and you may not notice watermarks if the house have been newly painted. You need to do your research before you find yourself in another "Maroko". Some say rainy season is the best time to go house hunting and I can't agree less. 

Spiritual Factor: There are houses with funny inscriptions and symbols on the gate etc. Be sure that you are not moving into an occultic coven where things will fall apart. Do your homework! Ask questions! Observe! Before making commitment.

Marked Houses: Note that there are several houses in contention in this Lagos. Most of them would have been marked for demolition or other legal issues but covered with paint in pretense of renovation. Shine your eyes! 

To save yourself too many problems, the wise thing to do is involve a lawyer to go through the contract terms before you sign. Tighten all loose ends to be on the same page with your landlord. Question any clause/terms you are not comfortable with such as rent increment, pets, visitors etc. Never assume that your landlord will understand, make sure you understand, verify and clarify before making payment. 

You also need to know that agency fee is different from agreement/legal fees. Most houses in Lagos take one year rent.

Goodluck in your search!