How to Verify Property Documents in Nigeria

Property fraud is a serious problem in Nigeria. Every year, unsuspecting buyers lose millions of naira to fake documents, multiple sales of the same land, and outright scams. Knowing how to verify property documents before you pay is not just advisable — it is essential.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Document

First, confirm which type of title document you are being presented with. In Lagos, the main types are:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): The gold standard. Verify at the Lagos State Land Registry in Alausa, Ikeja.
• Governor's Consent: Required for all subsequent sales of a C of O property. Also verified at the Land Registry.
• Deed of Assignment: Transfers ownership. Must be stamped by FIRS and registered at the Land Registry.
• Deed of Lease: For properties on leasehold terms.
• Letter of Administration / Probate: For inherited properties. Verify at the Probate Registry.

Step 2: Conduct a Search at the Land Registry

This is the most important step. A land search at the Lagos State Land Registry will reveal:

• Who the registered owner is
• Whether there is a mortgage, charge, or other encumbrance on the property
• Any court orders affecting the property
• The history of ownership transactions

You can conduct a search yourself or, preferably, have your property lawyer do it on your behalf.

Step 3: Verify the Survey Plan

Take the survey plan to the Office of the Surveyor General of Lagos State (OSGOF) at Alausa. They can confirm whether the survey has been filed and whether the coordinates on the plan match the actual location of the land.

Also physically visit the land and confirm that the survey beacons (boundary markers) are still in place.

Step 4: Check for Adverse Government Acquisition

Some land in Lagos has been acquired by the government for public purposes. Your lawyer can check with the Lagos State Ministry of Works or LASG Lands Bureau to confirm the land is not under any government acquisition notice.

Step 5: Verify the Seller's Identity

Confirm that the person selling the property is the same person named in the title documents. Ask for government-issued ID and match it to the names on the documents. If the seller is acting on behalf of the owner, demand a properly executed Power of Attorney.

Step 6: Investigate the Physical Property

Visit the property at different times of day. Speak to neighbours about the history of the property and whether there are any known disputes. Check for any physical signs of a competing claim (other people occupying or cultivating the land).

Work with a Registered Agent

Amuwo Properties Solutions works exclusively with verified, properly documented properties. Our team handles title searches and documentation checks on behalf of our buyers, giving you peace of mind before you commit.