By our Reporter
The Lagos State Government has directed allottees of its housing estates to obtain official approval before carrying out any structural alterations, including the installation of solar panels, in their residences.
The directive was reiterated by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engr. Abdulhafis Toriola, following concerns raised by a resident over enforcement activities by the Ministry’s Monitoring and Compliance Team at the Lagos State Millennium Housing Estate, Ibeshe.
Toriola explained that the requirement is clearly stated in the Letter of Allocation and Allottees Guide issued to beneficiaries at the point of purchase. He noted that allottees must seek approval for any external modification to their flats or buildings, including solar panel installations.
According to him, the policy is aimed at protecting shared infrastructure such as rooftops, walls, and water installations, while also preventing risks associated with poorly installed solar systems, including fire outbreaks and structural damage.
“In recent times, the Ministry has had to intervene in cases involving leaking rooftops and fire incidents linked to solar panel installations by some residents,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary added that government-owned estates are designed as social housing schemes with interconnected facilities, often accommodating multiple families within a single building. As such, regulations have been introduced to guide installation standards, including material quality, panel configuration, and the technical competence of installers.
He further stated that the guidelines help to safeguard other residents, ensure proper insurance coverage for buildings, and allocate roof space fairly among occupants to prevent disputes.
The Ministry reaffirmed its openness to feedback from residents and urged all allottees to comply with established procedures, emphasizing that the measures are necessary to ensure safety, structural integrity, and peaceful coexistence across state-owned housing estates.
The government also continues its public enlightenment campaigns within estates to improve awareness and compliance with housing regulations.
