fbpx

What Every Landlord and Tenant Must Know

Renting a property isn’t just about exchanging money for a place to stay. It involves a legal relationship between landlords and tenants, governed by rules that ensure fairness and accountability. Whether you’re a first-time renter or have been renting for years, understanding these rules is important if you want to maintain a smooth rental experience and also prevent disputes. In this article  we would be taking a look into some key regulations that every landlord and tenant should be aware of.

1. The Lease Agreement is the Law

A lease agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms and conditions of a rental arrangement. It should include details such as:

  • The amount of rent and due date
  • The security deposit and conditions for its return
  • The responsibilities of both parties regarding maintenance and repairs
  • Rules about subletting, guest policies, and property use

Both landlords and tenants must read the lease carefully before signing to ensure they fully understand their obligations. Any changes to the lease terms must be agreed upon by both parties and documented in writing to avoid potential disputes.

2. Security Deposits: What’s Fair?

A security deposit serves as financial protection for landlords in case of property damage or unpaid rent. However, specific rules govern how security deposits should be handled:

  • The amount should be reasonable, often limited to one to three months’ rent, depending on local laws.
  • Landlords must store security deposits in a separate account and provide tenants with a receipt or written acknowledgment.
  • The deposit must be returned within a legally defined timeframe after the tenant moves out, typically 30 days, minus any deductions for damages.
  • Deductions must be justified and documented with receipts or written explanations. Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted from the deposit.

3. Rent Increases and Evictions Must Follow Legal Procedures

Rent adjustments and tenant removals must comply with local housing laws to ensure fairness and prevent unlawful displacement. Important regulations include:

  • Landlords must provide tenants with proper written notice before increasing rent, usually between 30 and 90 days in advance.
  • Evictions must be based on legitimate reasons such as non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, or property damage.
  • A landlord cannot forcibly remove a tenant without first obtaining a court order through a formal eviction process.
  • Tenants have the right to dispute an eviction notice and seek legal assistance if they believe the eviction is unjustified.

4. Repairs and Maintenance: Who’s Responsible?

Landlords and tenants share responsibilities when it comes to maintaining a rental property. The division of these duties is often outlined in the lease agreement:

Landlord’s Responsibilities

Ensure that the property remains habitable by providing functioning utilities, fixing plumbing or electrical issues, and addressing structural repairs.

Tenant’s Responsibilities

Maintain cleanliness, report damages in a timely manner, and avoid causing unnecessary damage to the property.

If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, tenants may have the right to withhold rent, arrange for repairs themselves and deduct the cost, or file a complaint with local authorities.

5. Privacy Rights: No Surprise Visits!

While landlords own the property, tenants have a legal right to privacy. Key regulations include:

  • Landlords must provide advance notice (typically 24-48 hours) before entering a rental unit, except in emergency situations.
  • Tenants can refuse entry if the landlord does not provide proper notice or attempts to enter for non-legitimate reasons.
  • Unauthorized entries may be considered harassment and can result in legal consequences for the landlord.

6. Fair Housing Laws Protect Everyone

Anti-discrimination laws exist to ensure that all individuals have equal access to housing. Landlords are prohibited from denying housing based on:

  • Race, ethnicity, or nationality
  • Religion or personal beliefs
  • Gender, sexual orientation, or family status
  • Disability or age

These laws help create a fair rental market where everyone has the right to secure housing without facing prejudice or bias.

7. Breaking a Lease: Know the Rules

There are instances where tenants may need to break a lease before the contract ends. The legalities surrounding this depend on the circumstances:

Legal Justifications

If the property is uninhabitable, if the tenant is a victim of domestic violence, or if they are called to active military service, they may have legal grounds to terminate the lease early without penalties.

Financial Consequences

In most cases, tenants may be required to pay an early termination fee or find a replacement tenant.

Mutual Agreement

Some landlords allow tenants to break a lease if proper notice is given and an alternative arrangement is reached.

Renting a home in Nigeria can be a smooth experience if both landlords and tenants are well-informed about rental laws. Understanding these regulations helps prevent legal disputes and fosters a positive landlord-tenant relationship. A well-maintained property, clear communication, and adherence to rental agreements contribute to a hassle free rental experience. In case of disputes, consulting local housing authorities or seeking legal advice is the best course of action. Renting doesn’t have to be stressful by following the rules, respecting

Scroll to Top