Property and Land Law
What it is: Landlord and tenant law governs the relationship between a person who lets premises and the person who occupies them. In Nigeria it is regulated by state tenancy laws, such as the Tenancy Law in Lagos and recovery of premises legislation elsewhere, together with the tenancy agreement. It covers the grant of tenancies, rent and its review, the duties of each party, notices to quit, and the lawful procedure for recovering possession through the court. When it applies: This service is relevant when creating or renewing a tenancy, when a tenant is in arrears or breach, when a landlord wishes to recover possession, or when a tenant faces unlawful eviction, harassment or an unfair increase in rent. How a lawyer helps: A property lawyer drafts or reviews tenancy agreements, advises on the correct statutory notices and periods, and represents landlords in proper recovery of premises actions or tenants resisting unlawful eviction. Counsel ensures that eviction follows due process rather than self-help. First steps: Keep the tenancy agreement, rent receipts and any notices, and consult a lawyer before serving or responding to a notice, as defective notices can invalidate the entire process. Because the required notice periods and procedures vary between States, early advice tailored to the location of the premises helps avoid costly mistakes and delays.
