Tenancy Agreements in Nigeria: What to Check Before You Sign

A tenancy agreement is the document you will turn to if there is ever a dispute about rent, repairs or your deposit. Many tenants sign without reading, because the landlord is friendly or the agent is in a hurry. That is the moment to slow down.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Tenancy rules differ between states, so for anything important, ask a lawyer to review the agreement.

The clauses that matter most

1. The parties and the property

Names and addresses of the landlord (or their authorised agent) and the tenant, and a clear description of exactly what is being rented: the unit, any parking, any shared facilities.

2. Rent amount and payment terms

• How much, and for what period?
• When is it due, and how is it paid?
• Is there a penalty for late payment, and how much?

3. Duration and renewal

Check the start and end dates. Ask how renewal works and whether the rent can change at renewal. Vague wording such as "rent may be reviewed" deserves a conversation.

4. Caution deposit

Look for the amount, what it covers, what deductions are allowed and when it is returned after you move out.

5. Repairs and maintenance

Who fixes what? Typically the landlord handles structural problems, and the tenant handles minor wear and day-to-day upkeep. Make sure the split is written down.

6. Service charges and utilities

Which bills are yours (electricity, water, waste, estate dues), and which are covered in the rent?

7. Rules for use

Restrictions on subletting, running a business, keeping pets, or making changes to the property. If you plan any of these, get permission in writing.

8. Notice and termination

How much notice must each side give? Under what conditions can the landlord end the tenancy early? A fair agreement protects you from sudden, unexplained removal.

9. Landlord's right of entry

Reasonable agreements say the landlord must give notice before visiting, except in emergencies.

Before you sign

• Read every page, including the small print.
• Ask for a copy in advance so you can read it at home.
• Do not sign blank spaces. Fill or strike through anything left empty.
• Get a signed copy immediately and keep it safely, with your payment receipts.
• Confirm the person signing has the authority to rent out the property.

Keep records

Photograph the property on move-in day and share the photos with the landlord. Keep every receipt. If something is agreed by message, such as a repair date, save it. These simple habits make disputes much easier to resolve.

With 9jaFinder's managed service, rent payments, receipts and maintenance requests are tracked in one place, so both sides have the same record.