The Lagos State Government has condemned landlords and agents who unjustifiably increase house rents due to infrastructural developments or other unknown reasons.

The state said it would no longer fold its arms and watch its residents being exploited by such landlords and agents.

The Special Adviser (Housing), Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, Barr. Barakat Odunuga Bakare, spoke on behalf of the state when she appeared on Your View, aired on TVC.

Bakare highlighted the limitations of legal practitioners in real estate and house rental matters, just as she clarified the distinct role of house agents and lawyers in rental matters, stressing

She revealed that the Lagos State tenancy law is under review to include provisions like caution fees that are currently missing.

Bakare encouraged residents to report landlords or agents who violate regulations to the Lagos State Regulatory Authority, either physically or online.

The special adviser further reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to tackling the housing challenges faced by residents of the state.

She said, “Government is constantly engaging landlords, property associations, and developers to promote collaboration and also to control excessive housing costs.”

Furthermore, she emphasised that the stare is fair and just in the distribution of state-owned housing, making use of fair, transparent, and well-laid-out criteria.

She, therefore, advised Lagosians to verify agents and developers’ registration with LASRERA before any transaction is concluded and called on all real estate practitioners to register with the LASRERA.