Tips to Conducting Home Inspections in Nigeria
1. Introduction
Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions a person can make, especially in a complex and evolving market like Nigeria’s. A home inspection is a thorough examination of a property to assess its physical condition before finalizing a sale, rental, or lease agreement. In Nigeria, where property fraud, substandard construction, and documentation issues are common, conducting a home inspection can save buyers from major financial and legal headaches.
This guide offers practical, in-depth insights into conducting effective home inspections in Nigeria, tailored for buyers, sellers, real estate agents, landlords, and property investors.
2. Understanding the Nigerian Property Market
The Nigerian property market varies significantly from region to region, with urban cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt showing more complexity due to high demand and construction activities. Many properties are built without adequate regulatory oversight, making inspections even more critical.
Key issues in the Nigerian property landscape include:
Unregulated building standards
Use of substandard materials
Lack of maintenance
Disputes over ownership and boundaries
Absence of building approvals or permits
Home inspection is not yet a culture among Nigerian buyers, which leaves many exposed to buying defective properties.
3. When Should a Home Inspection Be Conducted?
There are several key moments when a home inspection is highly recommended:
a. Before Purchase
This is the most common and critical time for a home inspection. It helps uncover potential problems before closing the deal.
b. Before Moving In
Even if a lease or purchase has been signed, conducting an inspection before occupying the home ensures it’s safe and habitable.
c. During Tenancy Renewal
Landlords and tenants can agree to a property inspection to identify any repair needs before renewing a lease.
d. Before Selling or Renting Out
Sellers and landlords can conduct pre-inspections to fix issues and make the property more attractive to potential buyers or renters.
4. Who Should Conduct the Inspection?
While some property buyers attempt a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, it’s often better to work with professionals:
Certified Property Inspectors: Specialize in assessing building conditions.
Structural Engineers: Best for evaluating structural integrity.
Real Estate Consultants: Offer holistic advice on the property’s market value and condition.
Lawyers: Verify the documentation and legal standing of the property.
5. Key Areas to Focus During a Home Inspection
a. Structural Integrity
Check for cracks in walls, sagging roofs, uneven floors, and weak pillars.
b. Roofing
Inspect for leaking roofs, broken tiles, rusted metal sheets, and improper installation.
c. Plumbing and Drainage
Look for leaks, broken pipes, clogged drains, low water pressure, and poor waste disposal.
d. Electrical Systems
Check sockets, switches, fuse boxes, exposed wires, and general safety.
e. Doors and Windows
Inspect for rusted hinges, broken locks, poor alignment, and gaps.
f. Ceilings, Walls, and Paint
Watch for dampness, mold, bubbles under paint, and signs of water damage.
g. Pest Infestation
Check for rodents, termites, cockroaches, and general hygiene.
h. Compound and External Structures
Examine fences, gates, driveways, security lights, and drainage channels.
6. Common Red Flags to Watch Out For
Foundation cracks or wall separation
Water stains or mold indicating leaks
Sagging ceilings or roof dips
Illegal structures or unauthorized building extensions
Inconsistent tile patterns or sinking floors
Missing or fake title documents
Flood-prone terrain
7. Tools and Equipment for Home Inspection
Moisture Meter: Detects dampness in walls and ceilings
Voltage Tester: Ensures electrical components are working safely
Flashlight: Essential for dark areas like ceilings or attics
Camera/Smartphone: For visual documentation
Measuring Tape: To verify room sizes
Drone: Useful for inspecting roofs and large compounds
8. Legal and Documentation Checklist
Always inspect the following:
Title Documents (C of O, Deed of Assignment)
Survey Plan
Building Plan Approval
Evidence of Tax Clearance
Receipts for Purchase
Utility Bills (NEPA, Water, Waste disposal)
Land Use Allocation Letter (if applicable)
Tenancy Agreement (for rentals)
9. DIY vs Professional Home Inspection
DIY Inspection
Pros:
Cost-saving
Faster scheduling
Cons:
Limited technical knowledge
May miss hidden issues
Professional Inspection
Pros:
Thorough and detailed
Helps negotiation with seller
Legal protection
Cons:
Involves inspection fees (N30,000 – N100,000 depending on property)
10. How to Document Inspection Findings
Use a home inspection checklist or format such as:
Checklist Section: List of inspected areas
Photographic Evidence: Images with annotations
Rating Scale: Good / Fair / Poor
Recommendations: Repairs, replacements, or further investigations
Document everything and save both printed and digital copies.
11. Using Home Inspection Reports for Decision-Making
Negotiation Tool: Use findings to request repairs or discounts
Backing Out: If the risk is too high, walk away from the deal
Planning Renovations: Helps in budgeting post-purchase upgrades
Legal Protection: Document serves as proof in future disputes
12. Home Inspection for Different Property Types
a. Bungalows & Duplexes
Focus on structural foundations, plumbing, and roofing.
b. Apartments/Flats
Check shared services (water, power, stairways), generator maintenance, service charges.
c. Commercial Properties
Inspect parking, external plumbing, signage permits, and power backup systems.
d. Newly Built (Off-Plan) Homes
Watch out for incomplete finishing, lack of documentation, and rushed construction.
13. Post-Inspection Next Steps
Request repairs or price adjustments
Hire specialists for repairs (electricians, plumbers, etc.)
Work with a property lawyer for title verification
Document the agreement with the seller/landlord in writing
14. Challenges of Home Inspections in Nigeria
Uncooperative Sellers: May deny access to property sections
Poor Construction Standards: Common in informal housing developments
Lack of Regulation: No national licensing for property inspectors
Cultural Attitude: Some see inspections as mistrust
Fake Agents: May mislead about property condition
15. Conclusion
Home inspection is a crucial step in real estate transactions in Nigeria. It protects buyers and tenants from hidden defects, legal traps, and financial loss. With the right tools, professionals, and awareness, home inspection can empower you to make confident decisions.
Whether you’re buying your dream home, investing in rental properties, or evaluating a lease, don’t skip this step. Take your time, inspect wisely, and document thoroughly.
Need Help Inspecting a Property in Nigeria?
Chaman Properties offers expert home and property inspection services with legal support, documentation verification, and full structural assessments.
Don’t fall into the trap of hidden defects, fake documentation, or poorly constructed homes. A single home inspection can save you millions, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.
At Chaman Properties, we specialize in professional property inspections, title verification, structural assessments, and legal documentation review — giving you complete confidence before you commit.
📞Phone: 08065553671, 08096888818
✉ Email: chamanlawfirm@gmail.com
📍 Address: 115, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Allen Junction, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
🌍Click here to learn more about Chaman Law Firm
Let’s help you secure the right property — the smart and safe way.
Call now. Book your professional home inspection today.