October 2, 2025
10 Things to Check Before Renting an Apartment in Lagos (2025 Guide)
House hunting in Lagos can be stressful, high rent, fake agents, and endless inspections. Abuja isn't much easier. This guide gives you 10 practical things to check before paying for any apartment, so you don't get scammed or regret your choice. With the right checklist (and tools like Proplinq), you can finally rent with peace of mind.
Renting an Apartment in Lagos or Abuja in 2025. What You Must Know Before You Pay.
Finding an apartment to rent in Lagos or Abuja in 2025 is not easy. Rents have risen sharply over the past five years, with reports indicating that prices in Lagos have nearly doubled. Abuja has followed a similar trajectory.
Today, a two bedroom apartment in locations such as Lekki or Gwarinpa can cost between ₦3.5 million and ₦6 million per year. Premium areas like Ikoyi or Maitama are significantly higher.
High prices are one challenge. Scams, misinformation, and poor processes are another. With almost anyone claiming to be an agent, renters must be deliberate and informed before committing a single naira.
Here is a practical checklist every renter should follow.
1. Verify the Agent First
Before discussing rent or inspection, confirm who you are dealing with. Request valid identification, confirm an office address, and where possible, speak to neighbours or security personnel to verify the landlord or agent.
If an agent avoids verification questions or rushes you to make payments, disengage immediately.
2. Understand Current Market Prices
Do not enter negotiations blindly. Average annual rents currently range around ₦4.5 million in Lagos and ₦5 million in Abuja.
For example, a one bedroom apartment in Surulere or Gwagwalada may range from ₦700,000 to ₦1.2 million, while similar units in Lekki Phase One or Wuse Two can exceed ₦3 million.
As a rule, prices far below market rates often indicate scams. Prices far above market may indicate unreasonable landlords.
3. Inspect the Property Physically
Never pay for a property you have not entered. Inspect walls, plumbing, electrical fittings, and general condition. Online photos can be misleading.
If possible, visit in the evening to assess power supply, water availability, and security conditions.
4. Assess Area Security
A good apartment in an unsafe environment is a poor decision. Ask residents about safety, confirm street lighting, estate security, and access control.
In 2025, perimeter fencing and controlled access are necessities, not luxuries.
5. Demand a Written Tenancy Agreement
Verbal agreements offer no protection. Ensure the tenancy agreement clearly states rent, duration, notice period, maintenance responsibilities, and renewal terms.
Without documentation, tenants remain exposed to sudden eviction or disputes.
6. Clarify Rent Structure and Deposits
Confirm the rent duration, security deposit amount, and refund terms in writing. Security deposits typically range from one to two months.
Never transfer funds without a signed agreement. This remains one of the most common tactics used by scammers.
7. Confirm Power and Water Supply
Ask direct questions about electricity availability, generator or inverter backup, and average daily power hours. Do the same for water supply.
Reliable utilities significantly affect quality of life.
8. Document Amenities and Inventory
Confirm what is included in the apartment. Air conditioners, wardrobes, parking, appliances, and fixtures should be listed in the agreement. Take photos upon moving in to avoid disputes later.
9. Evaluate the Neighbourhood
Beyond the apartment, assess the environment. Noise levels, neighbour demographics, transport access, schools, and markets all matter.
In Lagos and Abuja, location directly impacts daily productivity and wellbeing.
10. Use Verified Platforms
In 2025, relying solely on word of mouth is risky. Platforms like Proplinq verify agents and property owners through KYC processes, ensuring listings are legitimate before they reach users.
Verification acts as the first layer of protection before inspections even begin.
Final Perspective
Renting in Lagos or Abuja will always require patience. Demand remains high, prices continue to rise, and scams persist.
However, preparation changes outcomes. When renters follow a clear checklist and use verified platforms like Proplinq, they reduce risk, save time, and make better decisions.
A home should represent stability and peace of mind, not uncertainty or regret. Proplinq exists to make that standard, not the exception.