Buying land is one of the most significant investments you can make, but it comes with risks—especially in Nigeria, where fraudulent land sales are common. To avoid scams and ensure a smooth transaction, verifying land documents is crucial.
At Ulanhomes, we guide investors and homebuyers through a secure and transparent real estate process. Whether you’re purchasing land for personal use or investment, we ensure your property is legally sound. Visit Ulanhomes for trusted real estate solutions.
Why Verifying Land Documents is Important
Land fraud is a major issue in Nigeria. Many unsuspecting buyers have lost money due to fake documents, double allocations, or government-acquired land. Proper verification helps you:
✅ Avoid fraud and land disputes
✅ Ensure the land has valid ownership
✅ Confirm that the seller has legal rights to sell
✅ Prevent future legal battles over ownership
Essential Land Documents to Verify
Before making any payment, ensure you check the following key documents:
1. Survey Plan
A survey plan shows the exact location, size, and boundaries of the land. To verify it:
- Take the survey plan to the Office of the Surveyor-General in the state where the land is located.
- Ensure the land is free from government acquisition.
2. Deed of Assignment
This document shows the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. To verify:
- Cross-check with the Lands Registry to confirm that the land has no legal disputes.
3. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
A C of O is a government-issued document confirming legal ownership. If the land has a C of O:
- Visit the State Land Bureau to authenticate it.
- Confirm that the name on the C of O matches the seller’s details.
4. Governor’s Consent
If the land has changed hands, the buyer must obtain the Governor’s Consent for the transaction to be valid under Nigerian law. Ensure:
- The previous owner has the original C of O.
- The Governor’s Consent is officially registered.
5. Excision and Gazette
If a land falls under government acquisition, it must be excised (released) and published in a Gazette. To verify:
- Check the state’s Lands Bureau to confirm if the land is excised.
- Review the Gazette to see if the land is recognized by the government.
6. Receipt of Purchase
A receipt serves as proof of payment for the land. Ensure that:
- It is signed by the rightful owner or the company selling the land.
- It includes the seller’s details, amount paid, and date of purchase.
Steps to Verify Land Documents Before Buying
Step 1: Conduct a Physical Inspection
Visit the land in person to confirm its location, accessibility, and neighborhood conditions.
Step 2: Conduct a Land Search at the Land Registry
This helps confirm if the land is free from legal disputes or government acquisition.
Step 3: Engage a Professional Surveyor
A licensed surveyor can authenticate the survey plan and check for any encumbrances.
Step 4: Hire a Real Estate Lawyer
A lawyer will help review all documents, ensure proper due diligence, and prevent fraudulent transactions.
Step 5: Confirm the Seller’s Identity
If buying from an individual, ensure they are the rightful owner. If buying from a company, check their registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Final Thoughts
Verifying land documents is a crucial step in securing a legitimate real estate investment in Nigeria. By following due diligence, you can avoid scams and safeguard your financial future.
At Ulanhomes, we make real estate transactions safe, transparent, and hassle-free. Ready to invest in verified properties? Visit Ulanhomes today!