Property agents in Lagos who skirt tenancy rules could soon be staring at a maximum of two years behind bars, a ₦1 million fine or both if a new bill before the state’s House of Assembly becomes law.

The proposed legislation, officially titled A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Relationship Between Landlords and Tenants, Including the Procedure for the Recovery of Premises in Lagos State, and for Other Connected Matters, marks a sweeping bid to overhaul the state’s rental ecosystem.

If passed, the bill will sharpen oversight on the conduct of property agents, standardize rent collection practices, and set clear boundaries for tenancy agreements. It also aims to bring stricter order to the landlord–tenant dynamic, spelling out explicit procedures for rent payments and property recovery.

A key provision targets unregistered agents anyone operating without certification under the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority Law of 2021. Violations such as breaching commission caps, mishandling rent, or delaying remittances will constitute offences punishable under the proposed law.

Convicted offenders would not only face fines or imprisonment but would also be compelled to return every naira unlawfully collected. The message from the state is unmistakable: the era of loose regulation in Lagos real estate may be drawing to a close.

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