Property buyers are increasingly falling victim to certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria. With the rising cases of fake documents when buying properties, knowing how to spot a fraudulent C of O has become crucial for property buyers.

This article will help you identify the red flags to look out for when dealing with properties.

1. Poor Document Quality and Printing Standards

One of the signs of certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria is the poor quality of the paper used for the document itself. Government authenticate C of O are usually printed on high end quality paper.

What to watch out for to avoid Certificate of Occupancy Fraud in Nigeria:

The paper quality of the C of O presented to you should feel substantial and professional. Authentic C of O uses special watermarked paper that feels different from regular printing paper.

Color and Design Inconsistencies

Genuine C of O documents have a color schemes and design patterns set by the government. If the colors look faded, and the government logo isn’t in place as should, be cautious in dealing.

2. Incorrect or Missing Government Details

Certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria often involves documents with wrong government details. Fraudsters often make basic mistakes with official details that expose the fake documents.

Wrong Government Logos

Each state has specific logos and designs for their C of O documents. C of O issued in Lagos state is different from C of O issued in Ogun State or Abuja. If the logo doesn’t match the issuing state, you’re likely dealing with Certificate of Occupancy fraud.

Incorrect Official Signatures

Genuine certificates are signed by specific government officials. The Governor’s signature on a Lagos State C of O should match known samples of his signature. If the signature looks obviously different or appears to be photocopied, it is definitely fraud.

Missing File Numbers

Genuine Certificate of Occupancy has unique file numbers that can be verified with the Land Registry. If these numbers are missing or look suspicious, you should be concerned about the document.

3. Suspicious Timing and Processing Speed

Understanding the processing time for C of O applications in Nigeria can help you spot certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria. Genuine certificates processing time in Nigeria varies from state to state, minimum of six months.

Too Fast Processing

If anyone promises you can get a C of O in a few days or weeks, be suspicious of them. C of O typically takes 6 to 24 months to process, depending on the state and complexity of the application.

Unrealistic Promises

Be careful of agents who promise to “fast-track” your C of O application for extra money. While connections can sometimes help, genuine C of O documents cannot be rushed beyond reasonable limits.

4. Price Inconsistencies and Payment Methods

There is a standard cost for obtaining a C of O in Nigeria. Certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria sometimes involves unusual pricing or payment arrangements, which are usually red flags.

Prices Too Good to Be True

If you get someone offering to help you get a C of O for lesser than the standard government fees, it’s usually a red flag. Genuine C of O applications have fixed government charges that cannot be avoided.

Cash-Only Transactions

When processing your C of O with the government, processing fees are usually paid through banks or government payment systems. If cash-only payments is being insisted on, this suggests certificate of occupancy fraud.

Unusual Payment Locations

C of O payments are made at government offices or designated banks. If you’re asked to make payments at unusual locations or to private individuals, be very careful as you may be defrauded.

5. Inability to Verify Through Official Government Channels

The most reliable way to avoid certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria is to verify the document with the Land Registry using it’s file number. Fake documents will fail these verification test.

No Government Database Record

Genuine C of O documents are recorded in government databases. If a document cannot be found in the official records, it’s likely a fake document. Always insist on verification before finalizing purchase.

How to Protect Yourself from Certificate of Occupancy Fraud in Nigeria

Always Use Reputable Real Estate Companies

When getting a C of O in Nigeria, ensure to work with real estate companies that have a good track record. These are companies understand the proper procedures required and are less likely to be involved in fraud.

Verify Before You Pay

Never pay in full for C of O services before verifying the authenticity of the documents shown to you. Always confirm details through official government offices first.

Get Legal Representation

Hire a competent lawyer to help you navigate the C of O application process. Lawyers familiar with real estate law can spot signs of certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria that you might miss out on.

Document Everything

Keep proper records of all payments, communications, and documents that’s related to the C of O application. This record can be valuable if you discover the transaction as fraud and need to legally fight.

Also Read:

What to Do If You Suspect Certificate of Occupancy Fraud in Nigeria

Pause on All Payments Immediately

If you notice any of the warning signs we have listed, until this point. Stop making payments and pause transaction immediately. Don’t let fraudsters pressure you into continuing with suspicious transactions.

Report to Authorities

If you suspect a Certificate of Occupancy fraud in Nigeria, you can report to relevant government agencies. This would help you protect yourself and other potential victims from fraudsters. You are also, by extension supporting law enforcement efforts.

Conclusion

Certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria is a one of the serious problem in the real estate sector, and it affects thousands of property buyers every year. By understanding and observing the warning signs we discussed above, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of this fraud.

The absolute way to avoiding certificate of occupancy fraud in Nigeria is education and vigilance. Take enough time to verify all document, work with reputable professionals, and never rush into transactions involving large sums of money without verification.

Have been wanting to buy land or house in Ibadan, Epe, Ajah, Lekki, Ibeju-Lekki or anywhere in Nigeria? Reach out to us on +234 806 400 3456 or send an email to support@godslandempire.com. We are ever ready to assist you on your property ownership journey in Nigeria.