Renting a house in Lagos can be a big step, but it’s not a process to rush into. There’s so much to consider beyond just finding a space that looks nice or fits your immediate needs. In Lagos, the rental market can be tricky, with landlords and agents each having their own terms, expectations, and sometimes unexpected costs.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises after you’ve moved in, it’s crucial to arm yourself with the right knowledge upfront. Whether it’s about rent policies, amenities, or even security, having a clear understanding of what you’re getting into will save you from unnecessary headaches down the line.
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Here are 9 important things to know before renting a house in Lagos:
1. Is the Rent Fair?
Before signing a rental agreement, the first question you should ask yourself is whether the rent is fair. Lagos is a sprawling city with areas that vary greatly in terms of cost, infrastructure, and amenities. Take the time to inquire about similar properties in the area and compare rent prices. A property might look nice on the surface, but if you’re paying more than the average rate without additional value like better proximity to key landmarks, schools, or a comfortable environment, you might be overpaying.
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Ensure you assess the property’s amenities, infrastructure, and overall convenience. Does the house offer steady water supply, electricity, and security? These are non-negotiable. Speak with people who live in the area, or current tenants if possible, to confirm whether the rent reflects the true value of the property.
2. How Often Does the Rent Increase?
In Lagos, many landlords increase rent unexpectedly, sometimes without advance notice. This might not be mentioned in your contract, but it’s vital information to have if you’re planning on living in the property long-term. Frequent rent hikes can throw off your financial plans, especially if you’ve budgeted for a specific amount over time.
Ask the landlord or agent about the history of rent increases in the building or neighborhood. Better yet, talk to current tenants to get an idea of what to expect. Knowing this will help you decide if you can commit to staying in the apartment for an extended period or if you’ll need to plan for potential rent surges.
3. What is the Maintenance Policy?
Every property needs maintenance from time to time, and it’s essential to know who is responsible for it. Some landlords expect tenants to pay a maintenance fee annually, while others might handle it themselves. You should also ask about what happens in case of emergencies, such as sudden plumbing issues, electrical faults, or other urgent repairs.
Will the landlord handle these repairs, or are you expected to take care of them? Knowing this upfront will help you avoid being caught off guard when something breaks down and you need immediate assistance.
4. Can You Make Changes to the Apartment?
If you enjoy personalizing your space, it’s important to ask the landlord if you can make modifications to the apartment. Some landlords in Lagos are strict about tenants making any changes, while others might allow you to paint or hang art as long as you restore the property to its original condition before moving out.
Ask whether you can hang pictures, change fixtures, or redecorate, so you don’t find yourself in trouble for making unapproved adjustments to the property.
5. What Are the Lease Terms?
The lease agreement is one of the most critical aspects of renting a house in Lagos. Before making any commitments, review the lease thoroughly. Lagos landlords often ask for a two-year upfront payment despite the Lagos state government mandating that a lease term should only be for one year.
Beyond the duration and payment terms, also check the clauses regarding rent escalation, maintenance responsibilities, and eviction procedures. Make sure everything is clear, and don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any ambiguous terms.
6. What Are the Late Payment Policies?
Life happens, and sometimes you might be late on a payment. Before renting, make sure you understand the landlord’s policy on late payments. Will there be a grace period, or will you be charged a penalty immediately? It’s important to know when late fees will apply and how much they will be, so you don’t face any financial shocks down the line.
7. Availability of Social Amenities
The availability of basic amenities can make or break your living experience in Lagos. You’ll want to check for access to reliable electricity, clean water, good roads, and proximity to essential services like hospitals, schools, and shopping centers. If these are lacking, living in the neighborhood could quickly become a nightmare.
Before renting, ask about these amenities, and don’t just take the landlord’s word for it. Visit the area and verify these features yourself to ensure the neighborhood has everything you need.
8. How Secure Is the Neighborhood?
Security is a top priority for anyone renting a home. You’ll want to feel safe in your new home, so take the time to ask about the security situation in the neighborhood. Does the building have a security guard? Are there gates or barriers to prevent unauthorized access? How about the general safety of the area—are there reports of frequent burglaries or break-ins?
Asking these questions will give you peace of mind knowing that your life and property will be safe.
9. Can You Afford the Rent Long Term?
It’s easy to fall in love with a beautifully furnished apartment, but can you afford it long-term? One mistake people often make is stretching their budget to secure a place that impresses them initially but becomes a financial burden later.
Before making a decision, carefully consider your financial situation. Can you comfortably afford the rent, including other expenses like maintenance fees, utility bills, and potential rent hikes? Stick to a budget that works for you and avoid going overboard.
Conclusion
Renting a house in Lagos comes with its unique challenges, but being well-informed can make the process smoother. By knowing these key points before renting, you’ll be better prepared to make decisions that ensure comfort, security, and financial stability.
Are you looking for a hassle-free renting experience in Lagos? Krent takes the stress out of the process! We not only list properties that have been thoroughly vetted by our third-party team but also ensure that each property meets the highest standards of living. With Krent, you can rent with peace of mind, knowing that every home on our platform is properly inspected and ready for you.