How to Verify a Property’s Authenticity Before You Buy in Lagos
Buying property in Lagos can be a lucrative investment, but it comes with risks—particularly the risk of purchasing a property with fake or incomplete documents. Many buyers, especially first-timers, fall victim to scams because they don’t know how to properly verify a property’s authenticity.
At The Wallington Realties Limited, we guide clients through every step of property verification, ensuring safe and secure transactions. In this article, we break down how to verify a property’s authenticity before buying in Lagos.
1. Start with the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
The Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is the most critical document in Lagos real estate. It confirms the legal owner’s right to occupy or sell the property.
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Check the state government issuance: Only Lagos State Government can issue a valid C of O.
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Confirm the land/plot details match the property being sold.
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Be wary of duplicates or forged copies.
At The Wallington Realties, our team cross-checks every C of O with the Lagos Land Registry before listing any property.
2. Verify the Deed of Assignment
A Deed of Assignment officially transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer. To verify it:
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Ensure it matches the C of O and property details.
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Confirm it has been registered at the Lagos Land Registry.
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Check that the seller has legal authority to sell the property.
This prevents disputes over ownership and protects your investment.
3. Inspect the Survey Plan
A Survey Plan shows the exact boundaries and dimensions of the property. Verification steps include:
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Ensuring it aligns with the C of O and physical property boundaries.
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Checking for government acquisition or encumbrances.
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Confirming that there are no boundary disputes with neighboring properties.
Survey plans are crucial, especially for land purchases, to avoid future legal complications.
4. Confirm Governor’s Consent
In Lagos, any land transfer requires Governor’s Consent. This validates the Deed of Assignment and ensures the transfer is legally recognized.
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Verify the consent with official government records.
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Ensure the consent matches the property details and seller information.
Without this consent, any property transaction can be considered invalid under Nigerian law.
5. Check Building Plan Approval (for Developed Properties)
If the property has structures, always confirm that the building plan has been approved by Lagos State authorities. This ensures:
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The building complies with state regulations.
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You won’t face demolition or legal issues later.
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The property’s value is secure and legitimate.
6. Conduct a Land Registry Search
A Land Registry search provides detailed ownership information and highlights any registered claims or encumbrances.
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Confirms the property is free of disputes.
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Shows if it has been mortgaged or used as collateral.
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Provides official verification from the government.
The Wallington Realties performs comprehensive Land Registry searches for every property we handle, giving clients confidence before purchase.
7. Verify Seller Identity and Payment Records
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Confirm the seller’s valid identification documents.
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Ensure all payments and receipts are documented clearly.
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Avoid cash-only transactions without official receipts.
This step reduces the risk of fraud and ensures accountability throughout the transaction.
8. Consult a Professional Real Estate Agent
Even with thorough checks, some property details can be complex or difficult to verify for first-time buyers. A trusted realtor can:
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Guide you through verification processes.
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Handle all government and legal procedures.
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Protect you from scams and fraudulent transactions.
At The Wallington Realties, we combine expert knowledge, verified listings, and professional guidance to ensure every property you buy is authentic and legally secure.
Verifying a property’s authenticity in Lagos is non-negotiable. By checking the C of O, Deed of Assignment, Survey Plan, Governor’s Consent, Building Plan Approval, and conducting proper Land Registry searches, you protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.
Partner with The Wallington Realties Limited today to ensure your next Lagos property purchase is safe, secure, and hassle-free.
