The Lagos State Ministry of Housing has reiterated that all residents of state-owned housing estates must obtain official approval before carrying out any external modifications to their buildings, including the installation of solar panels.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Abdulhafis Toriola, clarified the position in response to a recent social media complaint by a resident who questioned the Ministry’s Monitoring and Compliance Team during a routine inspection at the Lagos State Millennium Housing Estate, Ibeshe.
He explained that no allottee is permitted to alter any part of an allocated flat or building without prior authorisation from the Ministry, stressing that this requirement also applies to solar panel installations.
“Any intended alteration to an allocated flat or building must be approved by the Ministry, and this includes the installation of solar panels,” Toriola stated.
According to him, the rule is clearly outlined in the Letter of Allocation and the Allottees’ Guide issued to beneficiaries at the point of purchase.
He said the measure is designed to protect shared infrastructure such as rooftops, walls, and water systems, while also reducing the risk of fire outbreaks linked to poorly executed installations.
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He noted that the ministry had been compelled to introduce stricter guidelines following increasing cases where solar panel installations caused more harm than benefit within government estates.
“In recent times, we have had to intervene to repair leaking roofs and address fire incidents traced to improperly installed solar systems by some residents,” he said.
Toriola further explained that government housing schemes are designed as interconnected structures, often accommodating between two and 32 households within a single block.
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For this reason, he said, unregulated modifications by individual occupants could pose risks to the entire building.
Guidelines
He added that the guidelines cover key safety considerations, including installation standards, cable quality, panel configuration, and the competence of installers.
“These regulations are in place to protect all residents, ensure appropriate use of roof space, prevent disputes among occupants, and provide a basis for insurance coverage in the event of damage,” he said.
The ministry also assured residents of its openness to feedback and continued engagement.
It noted that, in addition to regular public enlightenment campaigns across estates, residents are encouraged to seek clarification whenever in doubt and to comply with established procedures.
Toriola emphasised that adherence to the guidelines remains essential for ensuring safety, structural integrity, and peaceful coexistence across all Lagos State housing estates.
