How to Avoid Common Rental Scams in Lagos and Abuja
House hunting in Lagos or Abuja can feel like a full-time job. You have to juggle between traffic, tight budgets, competition for good apartments and unreliable agents. Although the process is stressful enough, there’s another problem many Nigerians face: rental scams.
Common Rental Scams in Lagos and Abuja (and How to Avoid Them)
From fake listings to “ghost agents,” thousands of people lose money every year to fraudulent real estate practices. The good news is, with the right information, you can avoid most of these scams comfortably.
This guide breaks down the most common rental scams in Lagos and Abuja, how they work, and practical steps to protect yourself.
1. The Fake Listing Scam
How it works
A “landlord” or “agent” advertises a beautiful, affordable apartment online. Everything looks perfect, good price, good location, great photos. But the apartment either doesn’t exist or is already let.
After you show interest, they pressure you to pay an inspection fee, a “commitment fee,” or an “agency fee” upfront, then disappear.
How to avoid it
- Ask for live videos or real-time WhatsApp walk-throughs before scheduling an inspection.
- Be suspicious of prices that are too good to be true (e.g. like seeing an apartment in Lekki or Wuse for ₦300k.).
- Use verified platforms or vetted agents rather than random social media listings.
- Never pay any fee without confirming the property exists.
2. The Multiple-Allocation Scam
How it works
A landlord or agent collects rent or deposits from multiple tenants for the same apartment. When everyone shows up on move-in day, someone ends up locked out and everyone loses money.
How to avoid it
- Ask to see proof of ownership (original C of O or allocation letter) or official landlord ID.
- Confirm the agent actually represents the landlord.
- Speak with current occupants, security guards or neighbours to confirm the unit’s status.
- Avoid anyone who pressures you to “pay today or lose it.”
3. The Offline (Inspection Fee) Scam
How it works
An “agent” demands an inspection fee, then takes you to poor-quality or non-existent units, or even disappears after collecting the fee.
How to avoid it
- Work with verified agents with a track record.
- Don’t pay inspection fees multiple times for the same area.
- Agree to pay inspection only after the agent confirms real listings and provides basic proof.
4. The “Under Construction” Scam
How it works
A developer or landlord collects rent or deposits on apartments still at foundation or blockwork stage, promising quick completion, then the project stalls or the developer disappears.
How to avoid it
- Avoid paying rent for apartments that are not at least 90–100% complete. Basically, if it’s not pay and pack in, avoid it.
- Request verification of the project status and meet site supervisors if you’re very interested in a house that’s still under construction.
- Use agents who physically verify projects before recommending them.
5. The Caretaker Monopoly Scam
How it works
Caretakers in some areas act as middlemen and may collect excessive “form fees”, sell phantom units, or take cash without receipts.
How to avoid it
- Ask to meet the landlord directly when possible.
- Always request official, written receipts for payments.
- Avoid cash transactions without documentation.
6. The Emotional Pressure Scam
How it works
Agents or landlords create urgency: “five people are coming,” “someone wants to pay now”, to force quick payments without due diligence.
How to avoid it
- Don’t rush payments because of pressure or urgency tactics.
- Walk away from anyone who manipulates your emotions to get money quickly.
Protect Yourself Every Time You Search for a Home
Here are some simple, reliable steps you can use on every search:
- Work with verified agents only. Unknown agents cause unknown risks.
- Ask for live proof. Videos and live walk-throughs reveal the truth.
- Visit the property before paying anything. No exceptions.
- Use written agreements. Always get terms in writing.
- Confirm ownership. Security guards, neighbours and official documents help confirm who owns the property.
- Avoid super-cheap deals. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Conclusion
Rental scams in Lagos and Abuja are common, but very avoidable. With the right checks, verified agents and a little patience, you can find a safe, honest home without giving up your peace of mind.
If you’re currently looking for a good house in Lagos or Abuja, Benuca connects you with reliable house agents that won’t waste your time and money.