When it comes to renting a property in Ogun state, tenants should be well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. Renting a house or apartment involves a legal relationship between the tenant and the landlord, governed by agreements and laws. In this blog post, we will explore the ten essential things that every Ogun tenant needs to know to navigate the world of renting with confidence and knowledge.
1. Quiet Enjoyment
One of the most critical aspects of renting is the right to quiet enjoyment. When entering into a lease agreement, tenants can insist that a clause guaranteeing their peaceful possession of the property be included. If this right is disturbed in any way, tenants can seek legal action for damages whether it is stipulated in the lease or not.
2. Fit For Habitation
Tenants in Ogun should understand that landlords are responsible for ensuring that the property is fit for habitation on the agreed-upon move-in date. This means the property should be in good condition and ready for occupancy.
3. Use Of Premises In A Tenant-Like Manner
Tenants have an obligation to maintain the property in a tenant-like manner, which includes regular upkeep and repairs. This could involve tasks such as winterizing the property, cleaning chimneys and windows, and promptly addressing any minor maintenance issues.
4. Distrain For Rent
Paying rent on time is a fundamental obligation of a tenant. In Ogun state, landlords have the right to seize and sell goods found on the rented premises to recover unpaid rent. This process can be initiated without going to court, so tenants must prioritize rent payments.
5. Action For Forfeiture
In cases where a tenant fails to pay rent on time, landlords in Ogun may have the right to re-enter the premises. However, the landlord’s right to take action for forfeiture must be explicitly stated in the lease agreement and not merely a verbal agreement.
6. Notice To Quit
If a tenant is asked to vacate the premises they currently occupy, they have the right to receive a notice to quit. The notice period varies depending on the tenancy type, ranging from six months for yearly tenants to a period corresponding to the tenancy duration; for a 6 month tenant, 3 month notice; for a 3 month tenant, 3 month notice. And a month notice for a month tenant.
However, in determining the proper period of notice to be given to tenants marked for eviction, the content of the tenancy agreement between the landlord and tenant reigns supreme over the provisions of any rent law.
7. Tenant Fixtures
Tenants have the right to remove their fixtures before the lease termination or within a reasonable time afterward. Fixtures are any items the tenant has installed or placed on the property during their tenancy.
8. Compensation For Improvements
In Ogun state, tenants may be entitled to compensation for improvements made to the property during their tenancy, provided they obtained written consent from the landlord beforehand. Improvements refer to enhancements that increase the property’s rental value.
9. Duty To Pay Rent
Above all else, tenants in Ogun state must fulfill their duty to pay rent on time. Failure to do so can result in eviction proceedings initiated by the landlord.
10. Covenant Not To Sublease
While tenants generally have the right to sublease the property they rent, it’s crucial to adhere to any agreements regarding subleasing. If there is a clause prohibiting subleasing, tenants should respect this condition to avoid potential legal actions by the landlord.
In conclusion, understanding these ten essential aspects of renting in Ogun state empowers tenants to assert their rights and fulfill their responsibilities. It’s essential for both landlords and tenants to have clear and well-defined lease agreements to avoid disputes and ensure a harmonious tenancy experience.
