Can a Landlord Increase Rent Arbitrarily in Ogun State?
Understanding Rent Review Rights Under Ogun State Tenancy Law
Introduction
Rent increases are a normal part of property leasing. However, in Ogun State, many tenants are often hit with sudden and arbitrary rent hikes, sometimes with little or no notice, leaving them shocked and confused.
As a landlord, you have the right to increase rent, but that right is not absolute. Likewise, tenants have a legal right to fair treatment and adequate notice.
This article answers the critical question:
Can a landlord increase rent arbitrarily in Ogun State?
Let’s break down what the law says, how rent increases should be handled, and how tenants can challenge unfair hikes.
Chapter 1: What Does the Law Say About Rent Increases in Ogun State?
Ogun State tenancy matters are governed by:
Ogun State Tenancy Law
Nigerian common law principles
Terms set in the Tenancy Agreement between landlord and tenant
Under the law:
A landlord cannot increase rent arbitrarily.
Rent increases must be reasonable, agreed upon, and communicated in advance.
Chapter 2: When Can a Landlord Legally Increase Rent?
A landlord may increase rent if:
1. The tenancy agreement allows for periodic review
Some tenancy agreements contain a “rent review clause” that specifies when and how rent can be increased (e.g., annually, every 2 years).
2. The tenancy term has expired
If a fixed-term tenancy has ended, the landlord may propose a new rent amount before renewal.
3. Market conditions have changed
A landlord may adjust rent to match current market rates—provided it’s not excessive or exploitative.
4. There’s mutual agreement
Landlord and tenant can agree on new terms—including rent—when renewing the lease.
Chapter 3: What Is Considered Arbitrary or Unlawful Rent Increase?
A rent increase is arbitrary or unlawful if it:
Is introduced without proper notice
Breaches the terms of an existing tenancy agreement
Is unreasonably excessive compared to similar properties in the area
Is used as a form of retaliation or harassment
Discriminates against the tenant (e.g., due to religion, gender, occupation)
Example: A landlord increases rent by 80% with just one week’s notice during a one-year lease. This is unlawful, unless it was clearly stated in the agreement.
Chapter 4: What Is the Legal Notice Period for Rent Increases in Ogun State?
There is no fixed number of days for notice of rent increase stated in Ogun State Tenancy Law, but courts expect landlords to provide “reasonable notice”, which is usually:
One (1) month for monthly tenants
Three (3) months for yearly tenants
The notice must be:
Written
Clearly state the new rent amount
Include the date the new rent begins
Tenants are not obliged to accept a rent increase immediately, especially if it’s not part of the agreement.
Chapter 5: What Tenants Should Do When Rent Is Increased
1. Check Your Tenancy Agreement
Look for a rent review clause. If none exists, the landlord must negotiate any change.
2. Request a Justification
You can ask the landlord for reasons (e.g., increased property tax, inflation, renovations).
3. Negotiate or Reject
If the increase is too steep or sudden, negotiate or formally object in writing.
4. Seek Legal Advice
If the increase is unreasonable or retaliatory, speak to a lawyer or file a complaint with the Magistrate Court or Tenancy Tribunal.
Chapter 6: Can a Tenant Be Evicted for Refusing a Rent Increase?
❌ No.
If a tenant refuses to accept an unlawful rent increase, they cannot be evicted without due process.
If the landlord insists, they must:
Issue a Notice to Quit
Follow the standard eviction procedure through court
Arbitrary eviction over rent disputes is illegal.
Chapter 7: How Much Rent Increase Is Considered Fair?
There is no fixed percentage, but in practice, a reasonable rent increase falls between:
5% – 20% annually, depending on:
Location
Market demand
Property improvements
Inflation
Any rent increase significantly above market average can be challenged in court.
Chapter 8: Responsibilities of Landlords During Rent Reviews
Landlords must:
Give adequate notice
Be transparent about the reason for the increase
Not use rent hikes as a tool to push tenants out unfairly
Stick to the agreement terms or negotiate fairly
Chapter 9: Sample Rent Increase Notice (For Monthly Tenancy)
Rent Review Notice
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This is to formally inform you that effective [Insert Date], the monthly rent for your apartment located at [Insert Address] will be revised from ₦[Old Rent] to ₦[New Rent].
This change is in line with current market rates and maintenance costs.
Please feel free to contact us should you wish to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Name / Property Manager]
Dated: [Insert Date]
Call to Action
Are you a landlord considering a rent review?
Are you a tenant facing an unfair rent increase?
Download our free Rent Review Toolkit
Use our template for Rent Increase Notices
Book a consultation with a tenancy lawyer in Ogun State
Don’t act blindly. Know your rights. Follow the law.
Conclusion
In Ogun State, rent increases are allowed—but not arbitrarily.
Landlords must give proper notice, act fairly, and comply with the tenancy agreement. Tenants, in turn, have the right to negotiate, object, or seek legal help if treated unfairly.
Understanding your rights—whether you’re a tenant or landlord—helps ensure peaceful tenancy relationships and lawful property management.