The Hidden Risks of Buying Land Without a Registered Survey Plan

Buying land in Nigeria, especially in a fast-growing city like Lagos, can be an exciting but risky venture. Many buyers focus on price, location, and land size but overlook one of the most critical aspects of land ownership—the Survey Plan.

Here’s a hard truth: If your land does not have a registered Survey Plan, you might not own what you think you own.

We’ve seen cases where people purchased land only to realize later that:
 ✅ The land falls under government acquisition and can’t be developed.
 ✅ The actual land size is smaller than what they paid for.
 ✅ The land is inside a waterway or drainage route, making construction impossible.
 ✅ The seller sold the same land to multiple buyers.

The good news? All of these issues can be avoided with a proper land survey.

What Is a Survey Plan and Why Is It Important?

A Survey Plan is a legal document that shows the exact location, size, and boundaries of a piece of land. It helps confirm whether the land is genuine, free from government acquisition, and safe to buy.

Every Survey Plan contains:
 ✔️ The landowner’s name
 ✔️ The land’s exact location
 ✔️ The land size and boundaries
 ✔️ The surveyor’s name, seal, and registration number
 ✔️ The land coordinates (which help in verification)

If the land you’re buying does not have a registered Survey Plan, you are taking a huge financial risk.

Dangers of Buying Land Without a Proper Survey Plan

1. You May Buy Government Land Without Knowing

Many lands in Lagos are under government acquisition, meaning they are reserved for public projects like roads, estates, or schools.

If you unknowingly buy such land, the government can reclaim it at any time—and you won’t be compensated.

✅ How to avoid this: Always conduct a land search at the Surveyor General’s Office using the land’s survey coordinates.

2. The Land Might Be Smaller Than What You Paid For

Some sellers inflate land sizes to make buyers think they are getting a better deal. Without a Survey Plan, you might pay for one plot but receive only half.

✅ How to avoid this: A registered land surveyor will measure the land accurately before you buy.

3. The Land Might Be in a Flood-Prone or Non-Buildable Area

Some lands are located in areas prone to flooding, erosion, or drainage paths, making them unsuitable for construction. Without a survey, you won’t know if your land is at risk.

✅ How to avoid this: A proper survey reveals topography issues so you can make an informed decision.

4. You May Become a Victim of Land Fraud

Land scammers often sell one piece of land to multiple buyers. Without a registered survey plan, you have no legal proof of your land’s boundaries, making it easier for fraudsters to sell your land to someone else.

✅ How to avoid this: Insist on a registered survey plan and verify its authenticity before payment.

How to Verify a Survey Plan Before Buying Land

If a seller presents a Survey Plan, follow these steps to confirm its authenticity:

1️⃣ Check if the survey is registered: A valid survey must have the surveyor’s seal, registration number, and signature.
 2️⃣ Confirm the land coordinates: Take the coordinates to the Surveyor General’s Office for verification.
 3️⃣ Conduct a land search: This ensures the land is not under government acquisition.
 4️⃣ Compare the survey details with what is on the ground: Ensure the land’s size and boundaries match the survey document.

At Prime Data Geo-Services Ltd., we offer professional surveying and land verification services to ensure your land investment is secure.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment, Get a Survey Plan

Buying land is a big financial commitment, and cutting corners can lead to devastating losses. A registered Survey Plan is not just a document—it is proof of ownership and protection against land fraud.

Before making any land purchase, ensure:
 ✅ The land has a registered Survey Plan
 ✅ You verify the survey with the Surveyor General’s Office
 ✅ You work with a professional land surveyor and real estate consultant

At Prime Data Geo-Services Ltd., we help property buyers verify land authenticity, conduct surveys, and avoid costly real estate mistakes.

�� Need Help with Land Verification? Send us an email at info@primedatageoservices.com for expert assistance.