UNDERSTANDING THE NEW LAGOS STATE TENANCY LAW / AGREEMENTS

Introduction

The Lagos State Tenancy Law represents a significant milestone in the regulation of the rental market in Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub. The law, which came into effect in August 2011, aims to protect the rights of both landlords and tenants, promote transparency, and ensure fair practices in the rental sector. This article provides a detailed overview of the key provisions of the new Lagos State Tenancy Law, empowering both tenants and landlords with the knowledge necessary to navigate the rental market effectively.

 1. Scope and Applicability

The first section of the law outlines its scope and applicability, providing a clear understanding of which rental agreements fall under its purview. This section discusses the types of properties covered, including residential and commercial, and highlights exemptions such as properties owned by religious bodies or educational institutions.

 2. Tenancy Agreement

The law emphasize the importance of a written tenancy agreement to protect the interests of both parties. This section delves into the essential elements of a tenancy agreement, including the duration, rent amount, mode of payment, and terms and conditions. It also highlights the consequences of not having a written agreement.

 3. Rent and Rent Review

One of the key aspects of the Lagos State Tenancy Law is the regulation of rent and rent review. This section explains the factors that determine the rent amount, the frequency of rent review, and the procedure for rent increase. It also discusses the consequences of arbitrary rent increases and the role of the Rent Tribunal in resolving disputes.

 4. Obligations of Landlords

The law places certain obligations on landlords to ensure the habitability and safety of rental properties. This section outlines the responsibilities of landlords, including providing and maintaining essential amenities, conducting regular repairs, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. It also discusses the consequences of non-compliance.

 5. Obligations of Tenants

Tenants also have specific obligations under the Lagos State Tenancy Law. This section highlights the responsibilities of tenants, such as paying rent promptly, maintaining cleanliness, and avoiding activities that may cause damage to the property. It also discusses the consequences of breaching these obligations.

 6. Eviction and Recovery of Premises

The law provides guidelines for eviction and recovery of premises to protect tenants from arbitrary eviction. This section explains the grounds for eviction, the process for issuing a quit notice, and the role of the Rent Tribunal in resolving eviction disputes. It also discusses the procedure for recovering premises in case of default.

 7. Dispute Resolution

In the event of a dispute between landlords and tenants, the Lagos State Tenancy Law provides a mechanism for resolution. This section explains the procedure for filing complaints with the Rent Tribunal, the role of mediation in dispute resolution, and the consequences of non-compliance with tribunal decisions.

Conclusion

The new Lagos State Tenancy Law represents a significant step towards regulating the rental market in Nigeria’s economic capital. By understanding the key provisions of this law, both landlords and tenants can ensure fair and transparent practices in their rental agreements. From the scope and applicability of the law to the obligations of both parties and the dispute resolution process, the comprehensive framework provided by the Lagos State Tenancy Law aims to create a harmonious rental market that benefits all stakeholders.