Due diligence guide
Property verification in Nigeria: what buyers should check
A clear overview of physical inspection, seller authority, property documents and independent professional checks before a purchase.
8 minute read · General educational informationProperty verification is a process, not a badge or a single document. The exact checks depend on the property, location and transaction. The goal is to confirm that the physical property, the person selling it and the supporting records all align before you make a commitment.
Confirm the property and the seller
Inspect the physical property and confirm its location, access, boundaries, condition and occupancy. Establish the identity of the owner or seller and the basis on which any agent, family member, company or developer is authorised to act.
Names, property descriptions and transaction parties should be consistent across the information provided. Any mismatch should be explained and checked rather than ignored.
Review the available records
Ask for the documents relevant to that specific property and transaction. A qualified Nigerian legal practitioner can advise which records are necessary, conduct or coordinate official searches and explain any interests, restrictions or outstanding issues found.
Where boundaries, coordinates or physical extent matter, a qualified survey professional can assess the survey information and site. Buildings may also require technical inspection depending on their age, condition and stage of construction.
Watch for avoidable warning signs
Be cautious when there is pressure to pay before checks are complete, reluctance to share documents, inconsistent names or prices, payment instructions that keep changing, or promises that cannot be put in writing.
A polished brochure, social media page, property viewing or receipt does not by itself establish ownership, authority to sell or a clear title.
- Unexplained document or identity differences
- Pressure to pay immediately
- Refusal to allow independent checks
- Unconfirmed personal payment accounts
- Guaranteed returns without evidence
Know who is responsible for each step
Mirvai can source options, coordinate inspections, request available information and keep communication organised. Qualified legal, survey and technical professionals provide their respective opinions, and relevant authorities maintain or confirm official records where applicable.
The buyer should review the findings, ask questions and decide whether the risk and terms are acceptable before signing or paying. This guide is general education and is not a substitute for advice on a specific transaction.
Property circumstances differ. Obtain independent legal, survey, tax, financial or technical advice where appropriate before making a payment or commitment.