07/06/2025
In Nigeria, a Deed of Transfer and a Survey Plan are two distinct but essential land-related documents, each serving a different purpose in property transactions:
1. Deed of Transfer (also called Deed of Assignment): This is a legal document that transfers ownership of land or property from one party (the seller/assignor) to another (the buyer/assignee).
Key Features:
*Contains the names of the parties involved.
*Details the history of ownership (root of title).
*Includes the agreed purchase price.
*Describes the property being transferred (often referencing the survey plan).
*Must be signed, witnessed, and registered at the Land Registry.
Legal Importance:
It serves as proof of ownership and is required to process a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Governor’s Consent.
2. Survey Plan: Is a technical drawing that shows the exact boundaries and measurements of a parcel of land.
Key Features:
*Prepared by a licensed surveyor.
*Shows coordinates, dimensions, and total land area.
*Indicates the land’s location, beacons, and nearby landmarks.
*Includes the Surveyor General’s endorsement if authenticated.
Legal Importance:
Essential for:
*Verifying land size and location
*Checking if land falls under government acquisition or restriction
*Submitting for building approval or C of O
In essence:
A Deed of Transfer tells who owns the land,
A Survey Plan tells where the land is and how big it is.
Both are crucial when buying or verifying property in Nigeria.
