The Lagos State Government has warned landlords and agents against arbitrary and unjustified rent increases.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports, it has vowed to protect residents from exploitation in the housing sector across the state.
Barakat Bakare, Special Adviser on Housing to LASRERA, made this known during a live appearance.
She said the state government would no longer tolerate unfair housing practices.
Bakare described recent rent hikes by some landlords and agents as unacceptable and exploitative.
She emphasized Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to providing fair and affordable housing for Lagosians.
“The government won’t fold its arms while residents are exploited,” she stated during the interview.
Measures are being introduced to check the excesses of property owners and agents.
She highlighted the high demand for housing in urban areas as a major challenge.
Bakare explained the difference between house agents and lawyers in rental transactions.
She noted that some lawyers operate beyond their legal boundaries in real estate dealings.
Residents, she said, often get confused due to a lack of awareness.
This confusion can lead to exploitation and poor decisions in rental agreements.
She revealed that Lagos State tenancy laws are currently under review.
One key focus of the review is the regulation of caution fees.
She explained that current legislation lacks provisions addressing caution fees.
Bakare encouraged tenants to report violations to LASRERA for prompt action.
She assured the public that the agency is accessible both online and offline.
LASRERA is equipped to handle complaints quickly and efficiently.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting residents facing housing challenges.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, she said, is concerned about rising housing costs.
The government is in regular talks with landlords, agents, and developers.
The aim is to foster collaboration and reduce housing costs in Lagos.
Bakare said excessive rent increases must be controlled to protect tenants.
She also spoke on the fair allocation of government-owned housing.
She stated that the allocation process is transparent and based on clear criteria.
“No one is favored unfairly,” she noted regarding the allocation procedure.
She urged residents to verify the registration of agents and developers.
Verification helps avoid fraud and ensures safe property transactions.
Only registered agents should be trusted in property dealings, she warned.
She called on all real estate professionals to register with LASRERA.
Registration builds accountability and trust in the sector, she said.
The government’s action signals a serious intent to address housing problems in Lagos.
Residents hope these efforts will bring relief from rising rent and exploitation.
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