Good questions.
Straightforward answers.
Understand the service, the scope and what it means to have someone on your side in Lagos.
Do I need to be in Nigeria?
No. The service is designed for clients who may not be physically present. Information review, scope agreement and report discussions can take place remotely, with suitable property access arranged for the site visit.
What is an Owner’s Representative?
An Owner’s Representative works on the client’s side of a property or construction project. Within the agreed scope, I monitor progress, identify concerns, document issues and keep you informed so you can make decisions with better information.
Are you my contractor?
My core representation and inspection services are designed to remain independent of the contractor carrying out the work. The exact role and scope are agreed before an appointment.
Do you sell property?
My primary role is independent property and project representation rather than property sales. My work is not built around convincing you to buy a particular property.
Can you tell me whether a building is structurally safe?
A general property or architectural inspection does not replace a structural engineering assessment. Where structural concerns are identified or specialist certification is required, an appropriately qualified structural engineer should be engaged.
Do you verify land titles?
Legal title verification should be undertaken by an appropriately qualified Nigerian property lawyer and other relevant professionals. I can work alongside your legal and property advisers where required.
Can you tell me exactly how much construction should cost?
Formal quantity surveying and cost certification should be carried out by an appropriately qualified quantity surveyor. My role may include identifying areas requiring cost clarification and coordinating with the relevant consultant.
Can you inspect a property before I buy it?
Yes. Pre-purchase inspection is one of the core services. The inspection documents visible condition and matters requiring attention within the agreed scope.
Can you inspect an apartment before handover?
Yes. A snagging and handover inspection can identify visible defects and incomplete works to help guide discussions before final acceptance.
Can you monitor construction every month?
Yes. Monitoring frequency can be agreed according to the construction stage and your requirements. Both one-off visits and ongoing arrangements are available.
Do you handle construction money for clients?
The preferred arrangement is for clients to retain direct control of significant project payments. My role is primarily oversight, documentation and representation rather than custody of construction funds.
Do you work outside Lagos?
Lagos is the primary service area. Projects elsewhere in Nigeria may be considered by arrangement.
Will you replace my architect, engineer, quantity surveyor or lawyer?
No. Owner’s representation complements your professional project team. Where specialist expertise or statutory responsibility is required, the appropriate professional should remain engaged.
How are fees and reporting times agreed?
Each assignment is scoped individually. Fees, access arrangements, deliverables and reporting expectations are agreed before the appointment, based on the property and the work required.
Something else on your mind?
Ask about your property