Guide Documentation
Key Takeaways
- Diligence spans 4 critical pillars: Cadastral Survey, Registry Title, Approvals, and Structural Integrity.
- A registered survey coordinate charting prevents acquiring land committed to government acquisition.
- Official registry searches verify the true registered owner and flag any encumbrances or mortgages.
- Physical checks inspect soil condition, concrete strength, and estate drainage outfall.
Pillar 1: Cadastral Survey & Charting#
Before looking at deeds, surveyors chart the exact beacon coordinates against official state cadastral records. This confirms whether the parcel is within free land, excision boundaries, or committed government acquisition.
Pillar 2: Title Search at the Lands Bureau#
Legal specialists conduct physical and electronic searches at the Lands Registry (e.g. Alausa, Lagos). This verifies:
- The registered owner on the land folio
- Whether the property is mortgaged to a commercial bank
- Whether there is a lis pendens (pending court litigation)
- Whether Governor’s Consent has been duly perfected
Pillar 3: Statutory Approvals & Physical Inspection#
- Building Plan Approval: Confirms the structure was legally permitted by planning authorities.
- Structural Integrity: For completed homes, engineers assess foundation depth, wall cracking, and drainage slopes to ensure long-term durability.
BALL Advisory Tip
Never rely on a photocopy of a title document. Always require an official certified true copy (CTC) search report directly from the state registry.
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