Renting a house in Nigeria is not for the fainthearted. Aside from the exuberant cost, you also have to deal with finding one that looks good and fits your budget. Everyday realities like power supply, flooding, and internet access can greatly affect your comfort, which many tenants only realize after moving in.
Before committing, here are eight important things to consider before renting that house.
1. Tenancy contracts and agreements
Though they tend to be long, confusing, and full of legal jargon, it is important to avoid the temptation of just skipping to the end and signing it without reading. A tenancy contract is a legally binding document that mandates your landlord to do certain things that you definitely should be aware of to avoid being taken by surprise. It usually outlines your rights, rent duration, notice period, and conditions for rent increases or eviction.
Many tenants sign agreements without reading or understanding them fully. If anything seems unclear or unfair, ask questions or seek legal advice before signing, so you are not caught unawares in the future. Ensure all payments are documented with receipts and keep copies of every signed document.
2. Cost and hidden charges
Aside from monthly or yearly rent, there are other utility payments and service charges like electricity, water bills, LAWMA, etc., that you have to consider. You need to be sure if certain utilities are covered by your rent and provided for, or if you will have to either source them or pay for them.
3. Flooding and drainage
They say the best time to search for a house is during the rainy season, and this is not far-fetched. This is especially because flooding is a serious concern in many Nigerian cities, especially during the rainy season. That house that seems perfect may be your worst nightmare when it rains. Ask if the area experiences flooding and look out for signs like blocked gutters or poorly constructed drainage systems.
Also, look for moisture marks and mold on the wall, and be sure there is no large body of water around the property (e.g., river, canal, stream, etc.), as these areas are more prone to flooding. You can also visit after a heavy downpour to access things better. This allows you to access the house and environment properly before making that decision.
A flood-prone location can damage your belongings and make your living experience difficult.
4. Security
Security should be a top priority when renting a house. Many first-time renters often get carried away with the excitement of renting their first apartment and forget to assess the safety of the neighborhood they’re renting the apartment in.
Check if the building has secure gates, functional locks, a security guard, lighting, and possibly security personnel or a residents’ association. Ask about theft, burglary, or break-ins in the area. If possible, go for an apartment in an estate, as this will provide security to a large extent. Living in a secure environment offers peace of mind and protects both you and your property.
You can talk to one or two people who live and work around the area to get information about what the area is really like.
ALSO READ: 6 Safety Tips For Single Women Living Alone In Nigeria
5. Power supply
The joy of having a regular power supply in your apartment cannot be overemphasized. It’s important to ask around about the condition of the power supply before renting. Is it regular or irregular? If irregular, can you manage it? Is it run on a prepaid or postpaid meter basis? This will help you make a more informed decision.
6. Accessibility and proximity
Location affects your daily routine more than you may realize. Consider how close the apartment is to your workplace, schools, hospitals, markets, and major roads. Also, check the condition of the access road during peak traffic hours. This will help make life in the new house easier for you.
7. Condition of the house
Before paying anything, inspect the apartment carefully. Check water supply, electricity, plumbing, tiling, ventilation, windows, mold in walls, internet connection, parking, and general finishing. Test all sockets and switches to see if they’re working.
Ask questions about power and water, e.g., will you be sharing a meter with your neighbors, how will water be available, and is there a pumping machine? Confirm how often power and water are available and whether there are alternative sources like boreholes or inverters.
Also, request to see evidence that electricity bills have been paid to date and there are no outstanding bills to avoid being charged by PHCN for electricity that previous tenants used. Also, confirm there are no outstanding utility bills, such as LAWMA, water bills, or estate dues.
8. Noise
Noise levels can affect your peace and mental well-being, and they can get worse if you work from home. Check for nearby churches, mosques, bars, event centers, markets, or busy roads. Visit the area at different times of the day to understand how noisy it gets.
Renting a house requires careful attention to both financial and lifestyle factors. Looking beyond rent to consider power supply, noise, security, flooding, and connectivity can help you make a more informed and stress-free decision.
