The recent flooding in Lagos and increase in demolitions of buildings has raised questions about the role of government approvals in the construction of buildings. In this article, we will outline the steps required to construct a building in Lagos and important documents required for your building approvals in Lagos.

Building Approvals in Lagos: Documents, Processes & Steps

Steps to Construct a Building in Lagos

1. Prepare All Required Documents (survey plan, title documents, architectural, structural, mechanical & electrical, soil investigation & report)
2. Submission and Review by LASPPA
3. Approval and Permit Issuance
4. Construction starts
5. Final Inspections and Compliance by LASBCA

1. Prepare All Required Documents: Before starting the construction process, developers must prepare a comprehensive set of documents, including:

• Survey plan
• Title documents
• Architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings
• Soil investigation and report

These documents serve as the foundation for obtaining approval from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPA), where they undergo thorough review.

2. Submission and Review by LASPPA: The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPA) reviews the submitted documents to ensure compliance with state regulations.

3. Approval and Permit Issuance: If the documents meet the requirements, LASPPA issues the necessary approvals and permits.

4. Construction Starts: With the approvals in hand, construction can begin.

5. Final Inspections and Compliance by LASBCA: The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) conducts final inspections to ensure compliance with building regulations.

12 Key Documents Required For Building Approvals in Lagos

The following documents and reports are essential for constructing a building in Lagos:

1. Survey Plan
2. Architectural Drawings (sealed, signed, and stamped by an ARCON-registered architect)
3. Tax Clearance Certificate
4. Land Use Charge Receipt
5. Proof of Ownership
6. Structural Drawings
7. Structural Stability Letter
8. Structural Engineer’s Supervision Letter
9. COREN Calculation Sheets
10. Subsoil Investigation Report
11. Electrical Drawings
12. Mechanical Drawings

• Survey Plan: A survey plan is a detailed map or drawing showing the boundaries and measurements of a piece of land. It is essential for verifying property boundaries and ensuring compliance with zoning regulations.
• Architectural Drawings: These drawings, sealed, signed, and stamped by an architect registered with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), depict the design and layout of the building, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.
• Tax Clearance Certificate: This certificate serves as proof that the property owner has paid all necessary taxes to the government, indicating compliance with financial obligations.
• Land Use Charge Receipt: A receipt showing payment of land use charges, which are levied by the government for the use of land in specific areas for various purposes such as residential, commercial, or industrial.
• Proof of Ownership: Documentation proving ownership of the land or property where the building will be constructed. This could include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or other legal documents.
• Structural Drawings: Detailed drawings illustrating the structural components and framework of the building, including beams, columns, slabs, and foundations.
• Structural Stability Letter: A letter issued by a structural engineer certifying that the building’s structural design meets safety standards and is capable of withstanding expected loads and environmental conditions.
• Structural Engineer’s Supervision Letter: A document confirming that a qualified structural engineer will supervise the construction process to ensure compliance with the approved structural design.
• COREN Calculation Sheets: Calculation sheets prepared by a registered engineer from the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), providing detailed calculations related to structural design and stability.
• Subsoil Investigation Report: A report generated from soil tests and investigations conducted on the building site to assess soil properties and suitability for construction, including factors like bearing capacity and soil stability.
• Electrical Drawings: Diagrams and plans illustrating the electrical layout, wiring, and distribution systems within the building, ensuring compliance with electrical safety standards.
• Mechanical Drawings: Drawings depicting the mechanical systems and components of the building, such as HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, plumbing, and drainage layouts.

Conclusion

Constructing a building in Lagos entails a comprehensive process that necessitates numerous documents and approvals. It is crucial to collaborate with reputable experts and licensed architecture firms possessing the requisite knowledge and expertise. Our Building Construction Services at The Building Practice Architecture Firm

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