A practical student housing safety checklist for Nigeria

Pause and verify if you notice these warning signs

• Pressure to pay immediately before you have checked the property or the representative’s authority.
• A price or fee that changes at the last minute, or charges that were not disclosed in writing.
• Requests for passwords, PINs, one-time codes, or payment to an unrelated person without a clear receipt.
• A refusal to provide the full address, a written agreement, or a way to verify who is letting the property.
• A viewing that is repeatedly postponed while you are asked to send a deposit to reserve the room.

Before you visit

• Ask for the full address, total move-in cost, payment schedule, and any separate agent or service fees in writing.
• Confirm the person showing the property is the landlord or is authorised to represent them.
• Compare the advertised photos and description with details you can verify, such as the street, building, room type, and included facilities.
• Arrange a viewing in daylight where possible. Tell someone you trust where you are going and who you are meeting.

During the viewing

• Check that the room and address match the listing. Do not rely on photos or a video call alone.
• Test taps, toilets, lights, sockets, locks, and other facilities that matter to your stay.
• Ask about water, electricity, security, waste collection, shared spaces, repairs, and any rules that could affect you.
• Look for signs of damp, leaks, damaged wiring, poor drainage, or repairs that have been promised but not completed.
• Take notes and ask permission before taking or sharing photos inside someone else’s property.

Before you pay

• Read the full agreement. Make sure it names the property, the parties, the amount, the rental period, and the refund or cancellation terms.
• Check that every fee and the person or organisation receiving it are explained before you transfer money.
• Get a dated receipt or other written confirmation for every payment.
• Do not share your password, one-time passcode, card PIN, or banking login with a landlord, agent, or anyone claiming to help.
• Use a payment process that explains when funds are held, what checks happen, and how a dispute can be raised.

After you move in

• Keep copies of the signed agreement, receipts, listing details, and messages about the property.
• Record the condition of the room and any existing damage when you receive the keys.
• Report urgent repair or safety issues in writing and keep a copy of the report.
• If what you receive differs materially from what was agreed, document the difference and contact the relevant platform or service promptly.

How RoomieNG approaches rental checks

RoomieNG listings can include an in-person Scout inspection and eligible rent payments can be held through the platform’s escrow process. Review the listing, fees, terms, and dispute steps before choosing to use any service; never rely on a badge or a promise in place of reading the details.