The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans for a new tenancy law designed to curb arbitrary rent increases, illegal charges, and exploitative practices in the property sector.
Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, announced the development during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja.
He confirmed that the proposed legislation, currently before the Lagos State House of Assembly, seeks to address growing public concerns over excessive rent hikes, arbitrary agency fees, and fraudulent activities by unregistered estate agents.
According to Akinderu-Fatai, the bill has reached the committee stage in the Assembly and is expected to introduce major reforms that will sanitise Lagos’ housing and real estate sector.
Key provisions of the bill
One of the central provisions of the proposed law will make it mandatory for all estate agents operating in Lagos to register with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA). Operating without registration will become a punishable offence once the bill is passed.
The commissioner noted that the move specifically targets unregistered agents accused of exploiting tenants through excessive charges, multiple property sales, and other fraudulent transactions.
Faster dispute resolution
The proposed law will also expedite tenancy disputes by introducing weekend and public holiday sittings for tenancy-related cases. Once enacted, the law will apply uniformly across all parts of Lagos State without exception.
Akinderu-Fatai added that tenants seeking legal action against landlords will be required to provide proof of rent payments and up-to-date utility bills before initiating court proceedings.
Government’s commitment
The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s determination to restore transparency, sanity, and accountability in the property sector while shielding residents from exploitation.
He revealed that LASRERA has intensified enforcement against fraudulent operators, recovering more than N270 million from rogue estate agents between 2025 and 2026.
Akinderu-Fatai also reiterated that the government has consistently maintained that estate agency fees in Lagos should not exceed 10 per cent of the total rent payable by tenants.
He concluded by restating the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to making housing transactions more transparent, affordable, and investor-friendly across the state.