If you're interested in acquiring a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for your property, this article is your essential guide. Here, we outline a step-by-step process to obtain a C of O document for your property in Lagos State. It's worth noting that while this approach generally applies to other states in Nigeria, there may be slight variations in procedures. However, this article should provide valuable assistance to a great extent.

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 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.

Certificate-of-Occupancy

Now that we've defined the C of O and highlighted its advantages, let's delve into the step-by-step process of obtaining this document in Lagos State, Nigeria.

REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C Of O) IN LAGOS STATE
Here are the necessary Requirements you need to provide when applying for a C of O in Lagos State:

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.

2. 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.

10. 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.

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