Lets keep it real, the new Lagos tenancy bill is not law yet. So while they are still debating and adjusting things at the House of Assembly, here’s what you, as a tenant, should be doing to protect yourself, stay informed, and avoid being played.

Read Your Current Tenancy Agreement Like Your Life Depends On It

Because honestly, it does. Until the new bill passes, whatever you signed is the law of your own land.
Look for:

• Notice period (usually 6 months for yearly tenants)
• Renovation responsibilities
• Hidden charges
• Terms for rent increase
• Agent/Legal fees

If anything looks suspicious, ask questions. Don’t just assume landlords are always right.

Don’t Pay Cash to Agents, At All. Ever.

With this new bill proposing a 5% cap, some agents may try to “cash out fast” before rules clamp down.

So:

• Pay via bank transfer
• Put a clear description (e.g., “Agency fee for 1-year rent”)
• Keep receipts like your life depends on them

If Your Rent Is About to Increase, Ask Your Landlord for Written Notice

The new bill is trying to regulate arbitrary rent hikes. Even though it’s not law yet, you can still insist on:

• Proper notice
• Written communication

Document EVERYTHING

This is the part people ignore until wahala starts.

Take pictures:

• Before moving in
• After repairs
• Of bad plumbing/electricity
• Of any changes your landlord makes

If issues arise later, evidence is everything.

Start Saving Proof of All Conversations

• WhatsApp chats
• Receipts
• Voice notes
•  Emails

One small folder on your phone can save you from stress, harassment, and illegal eviction later.

Know Your Current Rights

Even under the old 2015 law:

• Landlords cannot evict you without a court order
• Landlords must give proper notice
• Tenants cannot be locked out, embarrassed, or harassed
• You can challenge illegal fees

Just because the new bill is coming doesn’t mean you’re powerless now.

See a Suspicious Clause? Get Legal Advice Immediately

Even if you can’t afford a lawyer, there are:

• Legal aid offices
• Pro-bono lawyers
• Housing rights groups
• Church/Mosque legal departments

Just ask. Lagos gets wild, don’t fight alone.

Follow the Debate Like a TV Show

Because this bill will shape your next rent cycle.

Follow:

• Lagos House of Assembly social pages
• Verified news platforms
• Housing advocacy groups

When new amendments are made, you’ll know exactly how it affects you.

Don’t Make Major Housing Decisions Until the Bill Becomes Clearer

If you want to:

• Renew rent
• Move houses
• Negotiate a new agreement

Take your time.
This bill might change fees, eviction rules, and landlord responsibilities. Don’t rush into a new deal that may become disadvantageous within months.

Don’t Be Afraid to Push Back

If an agent or landlord tries rubbish, you can now confidently say: “There is a new tenancy bill underway. Let’s follow due process.” Half of them will calm down immediately.

Final Word

The Lagos tenancy bill hasn’t landed yet, but the conversation around it gives tenants a little more power and confidence than before.

For now:

• Protect yourself
• Document everything
• Stay informed
• Don’t let anyone intimidate you

When the bill becomes law, you’ll already be two steps ahead.