How to Verify Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Lagos: A Complete Guide for Property Buyers and Investors

When investing in Lagos real estate, one of the most crucial documents you need to verify is the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). This legal document serves as proof of ownership and grants you the right to occupy and use a piece of land. However, with the prevalence of fraudulent documents in Nigeria’s property market, knowing how to properly verify a C of O in Lagos has become essential for protecting your investment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about verifying a Certificate of Occupancy in Lagos, from understanding what it is to the step-by-step verification process.

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What is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

A Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document issued by the Lagos State Government that confirms the holder’s right to occupy and use a particular piece of land. It serves as evidence of title and is one of the most important documents in Nigerian real estate transactions.

Here are some of the things found in the C of O:

• Certificate of Occupancy number
• File number
• Plot number
• Location details
• Plot size
• Survey plan or graphic (Plot shape)
• Date of issue
• Lease term
• Initial annual ground rent fees
• Land use purpose
• Terms and conditions

Why Verifying C of O in Lagos is Important

Lagos State, being Nigeria’s commercial hub, attracts millions of property investors and buyers. Unfortunately, this high demand has also led to an increase in fraudulent activities, including forged C of O documents. Verifying the authenticity of a Certificate of Occupancy is crucial because:

1. Prevents fraud: Many land documents in Lagos are forged or duplicated.
2. Confirms ownership: Ensures the name on the C of O matches the rightful owner.
3. Reveals disputes: Shows if the land is under government acquisition or litigation.
4. Protects investment: Saves you from financial loss and costly legal battles.

Steps to Verify a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) 

Verifying a Certificate of Occupancy in Lagos is a straightforward but careful process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.

Step 1: Visit the Lagos State Land Registry (Lands Bureau)

 The first step is to go to the Lagos State Lands Bureau at Alausa, Ikeja. This office is responsible for maintaining records of all land documents, including Certificates of Occupancy.

Step 2: Submit a Verification Request

 At the registry, submit a formal request to verify the C of O. You will need to provide details such as:

• The C of O number
• Plot number and block number (if available)
• Survey plan number

Step 3: Pay the Verification Fee

There is a government fee attached to C of O verification. The amount can vary, so confirm the current fee at the Lands Bureau. Payment receipts must be kept as proof.

Step 4: Verification Process by the Lands Bureau

The officials will cross-check the C of O with government records to confirm:

• The authenticity of the document
• The registered owner’s name
• Land size and location

Whether the land is free from encumbrances or government acquisition. Processing may take a few days to a couple of weeks depending on workload.

Step 5: Collect the Verification Report

 Once the process is complete, you will be issued a verification report. This report officially states whether the C of O is authentic and valid. It is your legal backing and added assurance before completing any land transaction.

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Common Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) Frauds in Lagos

While the Certificate of Occupancy is one of the most important property documents in Lagos, it is also a major target for fraudsters. Understanding these common frauds can help buyers and investors stay alert.

1. Forged Documents: Fraudsters often create fake Certificates of Occupancy that look almost identical to the real thing but have no legal recognition at the Lagos State Land Registry.

2. Double Allocation Fraud: Unscrupulous sellers sometimes “sell” the same plot of land to several buyers, each with a seemingly valid C of O. This usually leads to legal battles and confusion about the rightful owner.

3. Land Grabbing: Local land grabbers may forge a C of O to claim ownership of lands they do not legally own, deceiving unsuspecting buyers into paying for property that isn’t truly theirs.

4. Insider Corruption: Some fraudulent cases involve corrupt insiders within the land administration system who collude with fraudsters to issue or endorse fake C of Os.

How to Protect Yourself from C of O Frauds

To avoid falling victim to these scams, PropertyPro recommends the following precautions:

• Verify Before Purchase: Always verify the C of O at the Lagos State Lands Bureau before paying for any land.
• Use Legal Experts: Engage a reputable lawyer or property verification consultant to carry out due diligence.
• Research the Seller: Check the seller’s or developer’s background, past projects, and reputation.
• Insist on Transparency: Avoid sellers who rush the process or withhold information.
• Report Suspicious Activities: If you suspect fraud, report to the EFCC or the Special Fraud Unit (SFU) of the Nigeria Police.

In conclusion, verifying a Certificate of Occupancy in Lagos is not just a precautionary measure, it’s an essential step in any property transaction. With the right knowledge, tools, and professional support, you can confidently navigate Lagos’s property market while protecting your investment.