Lagos Introduces New Tenancy Bill to Curb Rent Increases and Control Agency Charges

The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans for a new tenancy law aimed at curbing arbitrary rent increases, illegal charges, and exploitative practices in the real estate sector.

The Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, disclosed this during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja.

He said the proposed bill, currently before the Lagos State House of Assembly, is designed to address concerns over excessive rent hikes, unlawful agency fees, and fraudulent activities by unregistered estate agents in the state.

According to him, the bill is at the committee stage and is expected to introduce reforms that will sanitise the housing sector.

A key provision will make it mandatory for all estate agents in Lagos to register with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), with penalties for non-compliance once the law is passed.

He explained that the move targets unregistered agents accused of exploiting tenants through inflated charges, fake transactions, and multiple property sales.

The proposed law will also speed up tenancy dispute resolution by introducing weekend and public holiday court sittings for related cases.

Akinderu-Fatai added that the law, when passed, will apply across the entire state, while tenants filing cases will be required to present proof of rent payment and updated utility bills.

He further disclosed that LASRERA has intensified enforcement actions, recovering over N270 million from fraudulent estate agents between 2025 and 2026.

He reaffirmed that estate agency fees in Lagos should not exceed 10% of the total rent and reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and affordable housing.