Caution Deposit in Nigeria: How Much, and How to Get It Back

A caution deposit is a refundable security deposit you pay at the start of a tenancy. It is held against damage beyond fair wear and tear, and any unpaid rent - and it should be returned when you move out. It is not extra rent, and it is not the landlord's to keep by default.

In Nigeria the caution deposit is commonly around 10 percent of the annual rent, though it varies. Be wary of a deposit that is unusually large relative to the rent, and always get the exact amount, and the fact that it is refundable, stated in writing.

Most deposit disputes come down to evidence. Protect yourself:

• Photograph and video the property in detail on move-in day.
• Keep the receipt that records the deposit as refundable security.
• Report and document any pre-existing damage immediately.
• Do a joint inspection at move-out and photograph the condition again.
• Give proper notice as set out in your agreement.

A landlord may deduct only the genuine cost of repairing damage beyond fair wear and tear, or unpaid rent. Normal ageing - faded paint, minor marks - is not damage. An unfair deduction is a recoverable debt.

The strongest protection is not paying the deposit straight to a landlord at all. On Flatmates Nigeria your caution deposit and rent are held in escrow until you confirm move-in, so the money is protected from the start of the relationship, not just the end.