What is a Building Permit in Lagos?
A building permit is a formal document issued by the Lagos State Government that grants permission to proceed with construction on a specific site. This permit verifies that your proposed building design adheres to zoning regulations, building codes, and safety guidelines. It ensures your project aligns with the overall development plan for the area.

Importance
There are several compelling reasons to obtain a building permit before commencing construction in Lagos:

Safety: Permitted buildings undergo a thorough review process to guarantee structural integrity and compliance with fire safety regulations. This minimizes the risk of accidents or injuries during construction and ensures a safe living or working environment upon completion.

Legality: Building without a permit is a violation of Lagos State laws. This can lead to hefty fines, project stoppages, or even demolition of the unauthorized structure.
Increased Property Value: A permitted building generally holds a higher market value compared to an unauthorized one. This is because buyers have greater confidence in the structural integrity and legal standing of the property.

Access to Utilities: Connection to essential utilities like water, electricity, and sewage typically requires a valid building permit.

Risks of Building Without a Permit
Skipping the building permit process can lead to a number of complications:

Financial Penalties: The Lagos State Government can impose significant fines for unauthorized construction.

Project Delays: Authorities can halt construction until a permit is obtained, causing project delays and additional costs.

Demolition: In severe cases, the government may order the demolition of an unauthorized structure. According to Punch Newspaper Lagos sets to demolish unapproved buildings in July and you may be asked to pay for demolition.
Difficulties with Selling or Renting: The lack of a building permit can significantly hinder your ability to sell or rent your property.

Recent Changes to the Building Permit Process (e.g., 10-minute Approval System)

The Lagos State Government has implemented innovative initiatives to streamline the building permit process. One such initiative is the introduction of the Electronic Physical Planning Permit System (e-PPPS). This online platform allows for faster processing times, with some reports suggesting approvals can be obtained in as little as 10 minutes for qualified applications.

Documents Required for a Building Permit in Lagos

Obtaining a building permit in Lagos is vital for any construction project. It ensures your plans comply with regulations and safety standards. Here’s a breakdown of the documents you’ll typically need:

Essential Documents:

Architectural drawings: Detailed plans prepared by a registered architect. These illustrate the design, layout, and dimensions of your building.

Survey plan: A certified plan of the property, showing its boundaries, topography, and existing structures.
Structural drawings with engineer’s certification: These plans, prepared by a COREN-registered engineer, detail the structural integrity of your building, including foundations, beams, and columns. The engineer’s certification verifies their compliance with building codes.

Continue Below
https://nzepro.com/building-permit-lagos/