In Lagos State, several land title documents are recognized to establish the ownership and legality of land transactions. Here is a list of the key land title documents:
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
This is a legal document issued by the state government, granting the holder the right to occupy and use land for a period, typically 99 years. It serves as proof of ownership and is essential for securing the rights to a property.
2. Governor’s Consent
This is the approval from the Governor required for the transfer of ownership of land that already has a Certificate of Occupancy. It validates the sale or transfer of property, ensuring it is legally binding and recognized by the state.
3. Deed of Assignment
This is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of land or property from the seller (assignor) to the buyer (assignee). It is crucial in secondary transactions and must be registered with the Lagos State Land Registry.
4. Deed of Lease
This document outlines the terms and conditions of a lease agreement between the lessor (landlord) and the lessee (tenant). It specifies the duration of the lease, rent amount, and other relevant terms.
5. Deed of Sub-Lease
This document is used when the lessee sub-leases the property to another party. It outlines the terms of the sub-lease agreement and is subject to the approval of the original lessor.
6. Deed of Mortgage
This document is used when a property is pledged as security for a loan. It outlines the terms of the mortgage agreement, including the repayment schedule, interest rate, and conditions for foreclosure.
7. Grant of Probate
This document is issued by a probate court, granting the executor of an estate the authority to administer the deceased person’s estate according to their will. It is used to transfer ownership of the deceased’s property to the beneficiaries.
8. Letters of Administration
Issued by a probate court, this document grants the administrator the authority to manage and distribute the estate of a deceased person who died intestate (without a will).
9. Survey Plan
This document shows the boundaries and measurements of a parcel of land. It is prepared by a licensed surveyor and is essential for any land transaction to clearly define the property.
10. Excision
This is a process through which land that was previously designated as government land is released to indigenous families or communities. The document certifies that the land has been excised and is now available for private ownership.
11. Gazette
A gazette is an official publication that records government decisions, including the details of land that has been excised. It serves as an official record that the land is free from government acquisition and can be legally owned.
12. Governor’s Right of Occupancy (R of O)
This document is similar to the Certificate of Occupancy but is often used for properties in areas that are yet to be fully developed or regularized. It grants temporary rights to occupy and use the land.
13. Land Purchase Receipt
This is a document that acknowledges the payment made by the buyer to the seller for the purchase of land. While not a title document on its own, it is an important part of the documentation process in proving a transaction took place.
14. Deed of Gift
This document is used when property ownership is transferred as a gift from one party to another. It outlines the details of the gift and must be registered to be legally binding.
15. Power of Attorney
This legal document grants one person the authority to act on behalf of another in property transactions. It must be properly registered to be effective in land matters.
Conclusion
These land title documents are crucial for establishing legal ownership, transferring property rights, and ensuring compliance with Lagos State land regulations. It is essential for property buyers and owners to ensure that they have the appropriate documentation to avoid disputes and legal issues.
