How to verify a property in Lagos before you pay

Verify property ownership through three key checks: (1) Request the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and verify at Lagos State Land Registry, (2) Conduct a CAC search on the property owner or company, (3) Check if the agent is LASRERA registered. PropX Africa provides automated verification that covers all three checks in one report.

LASRERA (Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority) is the government body that registers and regulates real estate agents in Lagos. While LASRERA registration confirms an agent's identity and basic credentials, it does not guarantee honesty or protect you from fraud. Always verify property documents independently, regardless of agent registration status.

Diaspora property buyers should: (1) Never pay without independent verification of ownership documents, (2) Use verified agents with a track record, (3) Conduct due diligence through a Nigerian solicitor, (4) Consider using PropX Africa verification services for remote property checks. Avoid sending money based solely on photos or video calls.

Request these documents before paying: (1) Landlord's proof of ownership (C of O, Deed of Assignment, or Governor's Consent), (2) Receipt of ground rent payment, (3) Agent's LASRERA registration certificate, (4) Draft tenancy agreement for review. Any resistance to providing these documents is a red flag.

PropX Africa research shows 1 in 5 Lagos renters lose money to property fraud, with average losses of ₦450,000 per incident. The most common scams include fake agents collecting deposits for properties they don't own, duplicate rentals where multiple tenants pay for the same unit, and forged ownership documents.