Lagos Warns Landlords and Agents: Don’t Charge More Than 10% for Rent Agreement
The Lagos State Government has reminded landlords and agents that they are not allowed to charge more than 10% of the annual rent as tenancy agreement or legal fees.
This warning was given by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Barrister Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja.
She explained that the Lagos Tenancy Law clearly states that agreement and legal fees must not go above 10% of the rent. Any landlord or agent who asks for more is breaking the law.
“We keep getting complaints about people being asked to pay very high agreement and commission fees, which is unfair and makes life harder for Lagos residents,” she said. “We want people to speak up and report these cases. The government can’t be everywhere, but with your help, we can take action against these bad practices.”
Barr. Odunuga-Bakare also said that the housing problems in the state have increased because of the rising population and people moving into the city. Sadly, this has given some people the chance to cheat tenants. But she assured everyone that the government is serious about cleaning up the housing sector and protecting the people.
She added that the government has spoken with real estate agent associations, and they confirmed that most of these illegal actions are done by unregistered agents who don’t belong to any official group.
The Lagos State Government is encouraging anyone who is asked to pay more than 10% as tenancy agreement fees to report the matter to the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA). Reports can be made through Facebook and Instagram (@lasrera1), or on X (formerly Twitter) @lasrera.
This step is part of the government’s plan to make the housing system in Lagos fairer and more transparent for everyone.
About The Author
