Securing a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Lagos is a critical legal step for any property owner. This official document, issued by the Lagos State Government, confirms your right to occupy land for a fixed period and is essential for registering, selling, leasing, or using your property as loan collateral. Without a valid C of O, your investment remains vulnerable to disputes and fraud.
1. Understand What a Certificate of Occupancy Involves
In Lagos, all land is vested in the state government under the Land Use Act, and a C of O is the instrument through which the government grants statutory rights of occupancy. It applies to residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural lands, and protects your ownership rights once properly granted and registered.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
Before applying, gather these key documents and payments:
- Completed C of O application form with payment receipt.
- Land information certificate
- Purchase receipts.
- 4 copies of the Survey plan.
- Site location sketch.
- 4 Passport photographs with white background.
- Tax Clearance Certificate
- Current Development Levy.
- 4 Copies of Deed of Assignment.
- Publication/Inspection fee receipt (required for public notice).
- Application Letter.
- Picture of the Site showing time, date, and street name where the property is located.
- I.D Card
Preparing these documents accurately upfront reduces delays and rejections.
3. Submit Your Application at the Lands Bureau
Visit the Lagos State Lands Bureau at Alausa, Ikeja, to collect and complete the official Certificate of Occupancy form. Attach all supporting documentation and submit them to the Land Use and Allocation Committee (LUAC). You’ll receive confirmation that your application has been lodged.
4. Pay All Statutory Fees
Once submitted, you will be issued a demand notice for payments. These typically include:
- Application and processing fees.
- Publication and inspection fees.
- Stamp duties.
- Capital contribution based on land use and location.
- Survey verification costs.
Always retain receipts as proof of payment.
5. Publication and Land Verification
After payment:
- Your application details are published to allow any objections within a statutory period.
- The Surveyor-General’s Office verifies your survey plan and may conduct a site inspection to confirm boundaries and land use.
- LUAC will assess compliance and prepare your file for approval.
This stage is often the most time-consuming, so regular follow-ups help keep your application on track.
6. Approval and Execution
Once all checks are complete:
- LUAC forwards your file through senior land officials for review.
- The Governor signs the C of O, formalising your statutory right of occupancy.
- The signed certificate is then stamped for duty and registered at the State Land Registry.
In Lagos, this process can take several months depending on documentation and administrative system.
7. Collect and Register Your Certificate
You’ll be notified when your Certificate of Occupancy is ready. Visit the Land Registry to collect the document. After collection, make sure it’s properly registered in your name.
Tips for a Smoother Application
- Verify all land documents and confirm there are no disputes before applying.
- Consider hiring a property lawyer or licensed surveyor familiar with land processes in Lagos.
- Use official Lagos State portals or outlets where available to track your application and reduce manual follow-ups.
Getting your Certificate of Occupancy in Lagos involves clear documentation, adherence to statutory requirements, and timely payments. Following these steps not only protects your land rights but also increases the value and security of your real estate investment in one of Nigeria’s most dynamic property markets.
Written by Favour Akinyeye
An 88Lately Staff Writer
Leave a Reply