This information is for those persons or individuals interested in acquiring a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for their properties. Here, we outline a step-by-step process on how to obtain a C of O document for your property in Lagos State.
There are certain misconceptions surrounding the process of obtaining a C of O for property in Lagos. Many individuals perceive it as a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. These misconceptions have led numerous property owners to neglect the idea of securing a C of O, despite the numerous advantages associated with this document.
For those who may not fully comprehend what a C of O entails, it stands for “Certificate of Occupancy” and holds several significance for landowners in Lagos State. This document is issued by the state government to validate property ownership. In essence, a C of O represents the state government’s approval of a property. To gain full ownership of a property in Lagos after purchase, obtaining the C of O is necessary.
The benefits of possessing a C of O are much. Firstly, it safeguards your property from unauthorized access. For instance, If a government-initiated road construction project that entails demolition of your property, having a C of O ensures you will be duly compensated by the state government. Secondly, it shields your property from potential encroachments or disputes. A C of O is a standard legal document that can be used to counter any challenges to your property’s ownership.
Below are some of the doxuments you need to file for a C of O In Lagos
1.Land Information Certificate: A Land Information Certificate serves as proof of the land’s status and history. It provides essential information about the property and its previous owners.
- Receipt for Land Information Fee: Pay the prescribed fee for obtaining the Land Information Certificate.
(3) Receipt for Application Form: Obtain and duly complete the C of O application form, ensuring that all required details are accurately filled.
(4) Publication/Inspection Fee: Pay the fee for the publication and inspection of your C of O application, which includes public notice to inform interested parties.
(5) Capital Contribution: The capital contribution is determined based on the size and location of the land. Be prepared to calculate and pay this fee as required.
(6) Land Purchase Receipt/Agreement (Duly Stamped): Present the legally stamped receipt or agreement for the land purchase, confirming your ownership.
(7) Copy of Current Tax Clearance Certificate (Individuals): Provide a copy of your current tax clearance certificate to demonstrate your compliance with tax obligations.
(8) Copy of Development Levy Receipt: Submit a copy of the receipt for the development levy.
(9) Site Location Sketch: Include a clear and accurate site location sketch, highlighting the boundaries and dimensions of the land.
- Four Passport Photographs of Applicants with White Background: Provide four recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
(11) Copy of Approved Building Plan (if Developed): If you have developed the land, include a copy of the approved building plan for the property.
(12) Copy of Tenement Rate Receipt (if Occupied) or Land Use Charge: If the property is occupied, submit a copy of the tenement rate receipt or proof of payment for the Land Use Charge.
(13) Cover Letter Addressed to the Executive Secretary, Land Use Allocation Committee (LUAC): Draft a cover letter addressed to the Executive Secretary of the Land Use Allocation Committee. In the letter, state all the documents attached and provide your contact details.
Finally: Submission of four (4) copies of a Duly Executed Deed Of Transfer Of Land. Ask for the current format of this document because it has been updated.
Payment of ten thousand naira for the applicants name to be published in a Newspaper so as to avail people an opportunity to if necessary, object to the issuance of the e-c of o.
Payment of seven thousand naira for a location map of where the said property is situated.
Payment of N5,500 (for a plot of land, N25, 000 and above for double C of O forms.
Submission of two (2) copies of applicants passport photographs, 5cm x 5cm, on a white background.
Submission of a copy of purchase receipt from seller(s) of the said land/property. This receipt must be DULY stamped, takes N10, 000 to sort this aspect out.
Submission of four (4) copies of the property’s Survey Plans which must conform with prescribed requirement. A good Surveyor should be in the know of this prescription.
Submission and Payment of N10, 000 for Land Information Certificate per plot of land. A Land Information Certificate reveals whether or not the said land is genuine or not.
