Documents you need to rent an apartment in Nigeria

Once you've found a place, the landlord or agent will ask for a few things before handing over the keys. Having them ready makes you a more attractive tenant and speeds the whole process up. Here's the typical checklist in Nigeria.

1. A valid means of identification

Expect to provide a government-issued ID, your NIN, driver's licence, international passport, or voter's card. Increasingly, platforms run a KYC check, which also protects you, since it means the landlord has been verified too.

2. Proof of income or employment

Landlords want comfort that you can pay. That might be a letter of employment, recent payslips, bank statements, or for business owners, proof of the business. The bar is higher for premium units.

3. A guarantor

Many landlords ask for a guarantor, someone who vouches for you and can be contacted if there's an issue. Have their name, occupation, address and phone number ready, and check they're willing before you list them.

4. References

A previous landlord or an employer reference can tip a decision in your favour, especially in a competitive area.

5. The tenancy agreement

This is the document that protects both sides. Read it before signing and make sure it names the rent, the term, every fee, and the conditions for refunds. See our guide on writing a tenancy agreement.

6. The money, ready and traceable

Have your first payment ready, rent plus the move-in fees, and pay it in a way that leaves a record. Never hand over untraceable cash, and get a receipt for everything.

Make it easier on both sides

On Property360, your KYC, lease, signed tenancy agreement and every receipt live in one place, so you're not digging through email or WhatsApp when you need them. You can browse verified homes and reserve when you're ready.

This article is general guidance. Exact requirements vary by landlord, property type and location.