Why Documentation Is Everything When Buying Property in Lagos.

In Lagos’ luxury market (Ikoyi, Banana Island, Victoria Island), a stunning property is only as safe as its paperwork. For high-net-worth and diaspora investors, documentation is the single most important protection against fraud, costly disputes, and long delays. Proper documents don’t just prove ownership, they preserve value, enable financing, and make the asset transferable to future generations.

The core documents you must demand

a. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), primary proof of government grant of the land.

b. Governor’s Consent – required where land was previously assigned; confirms lawful transfer.

c. Deed of Assignment / Registered Conveyance — shows legal transfer between seller and buyer.

d. Survey Plan (Approved by the Surveyor-General) — exact boundaries and coordinates; prevents encroachment.

e. Approved Building Plans & Completion Certificate — confirms construction compliance.

f. Tax Receipts & Rates Clearance — shows no outstanding liabilities on the asset.

g. Title Search Report (Land Registry), history of ownership and any encumbrances.

h. Developer Approvals & Project Permits (for off-plan purchases) — show planning permission and infrastructure sign-offs.

How to verify documents — step by step

1. Obtain originals and certified copies, never rely on photocopies alone.
2. Cross-check with government registries, confirm C of O and Governor’s Consent at the Land Registry and relevant state offices.
3. Verify survey coordinates on-site, confirm that the physical land matches the survey plan.
4. Engage an independent lawyer for title searches, due diligence, and escrow arrangements.
5. Use escrow/escrow-style arrangements — payments should go through verified corporate accounts or solicitor escrow.
6. Request an Encumbrance/Charging Search to ensure no mortgages or litigations.

Common red flags to avoid

1. Title “in process” with pressure to pay now.
2. Multiple owners listed with unclear transfer history.
3. Vague warranties from sellers or intermediaries.
4. Detached, unverifiable developer contact details.
5. Requests for personal transfers into individual accounts.
6. Who should be on your team
7. Licensed real estate lawyer (title + conveyancing specialist).
8. Reputable estate agent/developer with verifiable track record (Hausworks Ltd owns/represents many verified properties).
9. Accountant/tax advisor for compliance checks.

a. Original C of O / Governor’s Consent verified

b. Registered Deed of Assignment available

c. Survey plan verified on site

d. Approved building plans + completion certificate (if built)

e. No encumbrance / mortgage on title

f. Verified developer ownership or exclusive representation

g. Secure payment channel & signed contract of sale

Now you Know that documentation protects luxury.

Luxury properties carry prestige and value, but that value is only realized when titles are clean, approvals are in place, and processes are transparent. For diaspora and HNW (High net worth) buyers, documentation converts aspiration into certainty.

Ready to invest securely in Lagos’ finest locations?