Land is usually the biggest single purchase in a building project, and the most common source of disputes. A few careful checks before payment can protect your investment.
1. Verify ownership
Ask for the title documents and confirm them at the appropriate land registry. Confirm that the person selling has the right to sell, and check whether the land is under any dispute or government acquisition.
2. Involve a lawyer
A lawyer can review the documents, confirm the chain of ownership and prepare a proper transfer. Never pay on the strength of a receipt alone.
3. Commission a survey
A licensed surveyor confirms the exact size, boundaries and beacons of the plot, and a survey plan is needed later for building approval. Our land surveying services can help.
4. Inspect the site in the rainy season if possible
Look for flooding, poor drainage, steep slopes, filled land or erosion. These conditions affect your foundation and your budget. Our guide to foundation types for Nigerian soils explains why.
5. Check access and utilities
Is there a motorable road? Are electricity and water close? Extending services to a remote plot can add to your costs.
6. Understand the plot size before choosing a design
Plot size decides what you can build once setbacks, parking and drainage are taken out. Read how to choose the right house plan for your land and our guide on 50 by 100 or 60 by 100 plots.
7. Plan the whole project, not just the purchase
Land is the first step. Our step-by-step guide to building a house in Nigeria shows what comes next.
Browse our house plans to see the plot sizes our designs need, or talk to our team before you commit to a plot.
This article is general guidance, not legal advice.