Nigeria's rental market, particularly in Lagos and Abuja, has a well-documented history of fraudulent listings and deceptive practices. Here's how to protect yourself.
Red flag #1: The landlord is "abroad" and needs you to pay first
This is the oldest rental scam in Nigeria. The "landlord" posts attractive photos (often stolen from legitimate listings), quotes a below-market rent, and then claims to be in the UK, US, or Canada. They request you send money via transfer before viewing. Never pay for a property you haven't physically visited.
Red flag #2: Rent that is dramatically below market rate
If a 2-bedroom flat in Lekki Phase 1 is listed at ₦600,000/year when comparable units go for ₦2–2.5 million, something is wrong. Either the photos are fake, there are serious defects, or it's outright fraud.
Red flag #3: Agent demands full 2-year rent plus agency and legal fees upfront
While advance rent of 1–2 years is regrettably common in Nigeria, be very cautious of agents who demand all fees before you've signed a tenancy agreement or received a receipt.
Red flag #4: No tenancy agreement offered
A legitimate landlord will provide a formal tenancy agreement drafted or reviewed by a lawyer. Refusing to provide one suggests the arrangement is informal, the property may not be legitimately available, or the landlord is hiding something.
Red flag #5: Multiple properties shown to multiple people simultaneously
"Viewing fees" scams involve collecting ₦10,000–₦20,000 from many prospective tenants for the same property, then disappearing. Yard's verified listing system flags agents and landlords with repeated complaints.
Red flag #6: Structural issues dismissed as "minor"
Cracks in structural walls, evidence of flooding (water stains above 30 cm from the ground), roof damage, and poorly installed electrical wiring are never minor. Get an independent inspection.
Protecting yourself:
- Use Yard's verified listings and agent rating system - Always visit the property before paying anything - Verify the agent's ESVARBON registration number - Get receipts for every payment - Have a lawyer review your tenancy agreement