Enugu State lawmakers have introduced a bill regulating tenancy fees, aiming to protect tenants from unfair landlord charges.
The bill, titled “Bill for a Law to Amend the Landlord and Tenant Law, CAP. 101, Laws of Enugu State, 2024,” was sponsored by Hon. Okey Mbah, representing Nkanu East Constituency, and underwent its first reading on Tuesday.
It proposes capping agency and legal fees at 10 percent of rent, eliminating excessive charges imposed by property agents.
Additionally, the bill abolishes caution fees, which are traditionally collected as security but often not refunded after tenancy.
Section 3(3) specifies that agency fees for procuring accommodation must not exceed 10 percent of the rental amount.
Section 3(4) mandates that legal fees shall only be paid to qualified practitioners, also capped at 10 percent.
The bill addresses forced evictions, fraudulent tenancy agreements, and unregulated property management issues within the real estate sector.
It establishes a legally defined eviction notice period, preventing arbitrary removals that often disrupt tenants’ living arrangements.
Certified agents and property managers will be the only authorized operators, ensuring professionalism across all real estate transactions.
A designated government agency will be empowered to introduce additional regulations concerning housing and tenancy matters statewide.
Landlords violating the law face fines of ₦500,000, six-month imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity involved.
Hon. Mbah remains confident in the bill’s passage, believing it aligns perfectly with the interests of affected constituents.
