Lagos residents may soon get relief from rising rent and excessive agency charges as the state government pushes a new tenancy bill aimed at reshaping the housing sector.
Moreover, many residents believe the move could finally address long-standing complaints about exploitative housing practices in Lagos.
The Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, announced the development during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja.
According to him, the proposed law is currently before the Lagos State House of Assembly and has reached the committee stage.
He explained that the bill would introduce stronger regulations for estate agents operating across Lagos.
A major provision in the proposal will make registration with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority mandatory for all agents.
Furthermore, penalties will be imposed on agents who fail to comply with the new rules once the law takes effect.
The government said the decision became necessary following increasing reports of fake property listings, multiple sales, and inflated charges.
Akinderu-Fatai stated that many tenants have suffered financial losses through dealings with unregistered agents.
He added that the new system would help sanitise the housing market and restore public confidence.
Meanwhile, the proposed law will also introduce faster ways to resolve tenancy disputes across the state.
Weekend and public holiday court sittings are expected to be included for housing-related cases.
However, tenants filing complaints will need to present proof of rent payment and updated utility bills.
The Commissioner further disclosed that LASRERA recovered over N270 million from fraudulent estate agents between 2025 and 2026.
According to him, enforcement operations have already been intensified against illegal operators within the sector.
He also reminded estate agents that agency fees in Lagos must not exceed 10 percent of total rent.
Moreover, the government reaffirmed its commitment to affordable housing, transparency, and proper regulation in the property market.
