Property Law

Property Law governs the ownership, use, transfer, and management of land and other immovable property. It ensures all transactions relating to real estate are carried out lawfully, rights are properly transferred, and interests are adequately protected.

3.1 What is it?

Property Law is the branch of law that governs the ownership, use, transfer, and management of land and other immovable property. It defines the legal relationships between individuals and entities regarding real estate, whether as owners, tenants, lessors, lessees, or occupiers. In simple terms, Property Law ensures that all transactions relating to land and buildings are carried out lawfully, rights are properly transferred, and interests are adequately protected. It provides the legal framework for buying, selling, leasing, developing, or mortgaging property in Nigeria.

3.2 Areas covered?

Property law governs the ownership, transfer, and use of land and real estate, as well as the rights and interests that arise in connection with them.

Conveyancing and Assignment

Legal transfer of ownership or interest, including drafting and reviewing Deeds of Assignment and Deeds of Conveyance.

Leases and Tenancy Agreements

Regulating landlord–tenant relationships, outlining rights, duties, and remedies for both parties in residential and commercial arrangements.

Land Acquisition and Title Perfection

The legal process of acquiring land and perfecting title documents through registration and obtaining the Governor’s Consent.

Mortgages and Charges

Governing the creation, registration, enforcement, and discharge of mortgages and charges over property as security for loans.

Land Use and Planning Regulations

Covering building approvals, environmental regulations, and compliance with zoning laws under relevant statutes.

Property Development and Joint Ventures

Governing collaborations between landowners, developers, and investors, ensuring proper documentation and risk allocation.

Succession and Property Inheritance

Determining how property is transferred upon the death of an owner through wills, intestacy, or trust arrangements.

3.3 Legal Framework - Key Laws

Land Use Act (Cap L5 LFN 2004): Vests ownership of all land in the state Governor.
Property and Conveyancing Law (PCL): Applicable in some states, governing conveyancing, leases, and mortgages.
Land Registration Laws of Various States: Regulate documentation, registration, and perfection of land titles.
Mortgage and Property Law of Lagos State Cap M5 2010: Modernizes property and mortgage transactions, simplifying creation and enforcement of mortgages.
Tenancy Law of Lagos State (Law No. 14 of 2011): Governs landlord-tenant relationships, eviction processes, and rent control (with exceptions).
Wills Act 1837 and Wills Laws of Various States: Regulate testamentary disposition and inheritance.

3.4 Who are our clients?

Landlords and Tenants, Lessors and Lessees
Property Developers and Real Estate Firms
Surveyors, Valuers, Estate Agents, and Property Managers
Corporate Organizations and Financial Institutions
Individuals acquiring or disposing of property assets

3.6 How can we help?

We assist clients in navigating the complexities of land transactions by providing reliable, efficient, and transparent legal solutions.

Proprietary Interest Protection

Protecting clients’ interests through proper documentation and registration.

Dispute Prevention

Preventing disputes through clear, well-drafted agreements.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and government regulations.

Strategic Advisory

Providing strategic advice on real estate investment, leasing, and development.

Dispute Representation

Representing clients in negotiation and mediation, and collaborating with trusted external counsel for litigation.

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