Renovating buildings in Lagos, including activities such as retiling, re-plastering, and other aesthetic improvements, requires a permit from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), according to the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Regulations, 2019.
These regulations, under the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, Cap U2 of 2015, mandate that renovation applications be submitted to LASPPPA, including details of the renovation and any previous planning permits.
Experts emphasize the importance of these permits for ensuring compliance with building codes, maintaining safety and structural integrity, and conducting environmental checks. Many Lagos residents may be unaware of this requirement, which applies to both residential and commercial buildings. Renovations such as replacing floor tiles and other aesthetic improvements without a permit are illegal.
READ ALSO: Lagos Govt Woos Property Owners with 40% Discount on Building Permit
Understanding the Law
Section 5 (A.1) of the regulations clearly states, “No building shall be renovated in the State without a renovation permit granted by the Authority.” The regulations define renovation as any act done to improve a building’s beauty, including changing windows and doors, re-plastering, reroofing, replacing floor coverings, retiling, kitchen or bathroom remodelling, plumbing works, and electrical works, but excluding structural improvements or changes to the building.
Residents must obtain a renovation permit from LASPPPA before starting any of these activities. Failure to do so would contravene the regulations.
Application Process
Section 5 outlines the requirements for obtaining a renovation permit. Applicants must submit an application to LASPPPA, including details of the renovation and evidence of a previous planning permit if available. The application process incurs a fee equal to 25% of the current processing fees. If a previous planning permit is not included, the application must be submitted “As-Built” and comply with minimum planning standards applicable to the location, also incurring a 25% fee. Non-compliant applications must be adjusted to meet these standards before a renovation permit can be granted.
Expert Opinions
Experts highlight the critical benefits of obtaining renovation permits. Architect Kingsley Cletus explains that these permits ensure compliance with building codes and regulations, maintaining the safety, integrity, and habitability of structures. For instance, converting external plumbing to conduit plumbing or changing a building’s roofing from wood to steel can significantly impact stability and safety, necessitating approval to meet regulatory standards.
READ ALSO: Abdullahi: FCT Demands Tax Clearance Certificates for Building Permit
A real estate consultant specializing in facility management underscores the importance of these permits for ensuring safe and compliant renovations. He notes that inspections by qualified officials verify compliance with building codes, reducing construction-related accidents and maintaining long-term safety and stability.
Conclusion
Obtaining renovation permits is essential for conducting renovation projects safely, legally, and to high standards, benefiting both property owners and the state. Experts call for increased public awareness and recommend that the Lagos State Government expand LASPPPA’s workforce to ensure broader compliance with the mandate to obtain renovation permits before starting any projects.
