28 September 20265 minute read
Title, consent and the deed: what you should see
Before you pay a reservation fee anywhere in Lagos, ask to see these documents. A serious developer will show you all of them.
The root of title
For Sterling Heights this is a Certificate of Occupancy for the whole plot, with Governor’s Consent registered when the developer bought the land. Ask for a certified true copy and have your lawyer search it at the Lands Registry.
Building approval
The Lagos State planning permit for a twelve-storey residential building, with the approved drawings stamped. The number of floors on the permit must match what is being built.
Survey plan
A registered survey with coordinates. Your lawyer can check it against the state charting to confirm the land is free from government acquisition.
Contract of sale and deed
The contract sets out the price, the plan and the handover date. On completion you receive a deed of assignment of your apartment and a share in the estate’s management company.
Receipts for every payment
Every naira should have a receipt that names the development and your unit. Ours come from Receivly and are filed in your client portal automatically.