Cost of Building A Duplex in Nigeria

Thinking of building a duplex in Nigeria? It is a great option for families or even as an investment. But before you get started, it is important to understand the costs involved. Building a duplex can vary in price depending on a few things. The cost of building materials is not what it used to be so embarking on a building project requires an insane amount of money and tight budgeting.

This article will help you figure out what you need to budget for, from the foundation all the way to the finishing touches. We will break down the costs of different materials, hiring workers, and how prices can differ depending on where you’re building in Nigeria.

Whether you are looking for a more basic duplex or something more fancy, this article will give you a good idea of what to expect price-wise. So, let’s get started and reveal the true costs of building your duplex in Nigeria.

Table of Contents

What is A Duplex?

We are aware that a lot of people often mistake a bungalow for a duplex and vice versa, so to provide clarity, we have described a duplex below.

A duplex is a residential building that has two separate living units. These units can be arranged in a few different ways:

Side-by-Side: Imagine two houses mirrored next to each other, sharing a common wall. Each unit would have its own entrance, backyard, and living space.
Up-and-Down: This is like a two-story building where each floor functions as a separate living unit. One unit might have the entrance on the ground floor, while the other unit’s entrance is on the second floor. This is what Nigerians mostly know as duplexes.

Here are some key features of a duplex:-

Shared Wall: Duplexes always have at least one wall that they share with the other unit.
Separate Entrances: Each unit has its own private entrance, ensuring privacy for the residents.
Separate Amenities (usually): Ideally, each unit has its own kitchen, bathroom(s), and living areas. Some duplexes might even have separate backyards or patios.

Duplexes offer a good balance between single-family homes and apartments. They provide more space and privacy than apartments, while still being more affordable and potentially easier to manage than a full-fledged house.

Cost of Building A Duplex in Nigeria: A Breakdown of The Procedures and Expenses

The idea of building a duplex is great but an actualizing idea.

The Procedural Steps:-

Land Acquisition: Secure a suitable plot of land. Factors like size, location, and access to utilities will influence the price.
Architectural Design: Partner with an architect to create a duplex design that meets your needs and adheres to local building regulations.
Bill of Quantities (BOQ): This document details the materials and their required quantities needed for construction. It serves as a blueprint for budgeting and procurement.
Building Permit: Obtain a building permit from the relevant authorities. Fees vary depending on location and project complexity.
Construction: Hire skilled workers for tasks like foundation laying, bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, roofing, and finishing touches.
Inspections: Regular inspections by relevant authorities ensure compliance with building codes.

The Cost Breakdown:

The total cost of building your duplex will depend on several factors:-

Land Cost: Location plays a significant role. Land prices in urban areas will be considerably higher than in rural areas.
Size of the Duplex: A larger duplex with more square footage will naturally cost more to build.
Material Selection: Opting for high-end finishes like granite countertops or imported tiles will increase the cost compared to standard materials.
Labor Costs: Wages for skilled workers can vary across regions in Nigeria.
Professional Fees: Architect and engineers’ fees will depend on their experience and the project’s complexity.

By understanding these procedures and potential expenses, you can be well-prepared to embark on your duplex-building journey in Nigeria. Remember, thorough planning and informed decision-making will be crucial in bringing your dream duplex to life!

Procedure For Building A Duplex (Including Cost Estimations)

1. Acquiring a Land

This is the first and most important step when it comes to erecting a building in Nigeria or anywhere else. This involves researching available landed properties in the area where you would like to build your duplex and purchasing them. Without land, there will be no buildings.

The cost of land differs depending on the area you choose. Lands in the urban area tend to cost more than lands in the suburban areas and the outskirts of town. Ensure that you conduct proper research on the area to ascertain that it is not a waterlogged area. A piece of land costs around N5 – 10 Million naira today. Lands in busy cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja will cost significantly higher than the price mentioned above.

2. Building Plan

Building a house starts with visualizing your ideal living space. This is where architectural design comes in. An architect will translate your vision into a detailed plan. This plan includes:-

Formal documents and drawings: These outline the overall design and layout of your house.
Structural blueprints: These technical drawings ensure your house is safe and sound.
Bill of materials: This detailed list specifies the exact materials and quantities needed for construction.

The process of drawing a building plan for your duplex will cost about ₦250,000 to ₦500,000.

3. Building Permit Process

Before you can break ground on your duplex, there is one very important step you must take: obtaining building approval from the government authorities. This ensures your plans adhere to safety regulations and zoning laws. Here is what you will need to submit to obtain an approval from the government:-

Approved Architectural Design: The detailed plans created by your architect.
Survey Plan: A document outlining the precise measurements and location of your property.
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): Proof that you legally own or have the right to develop the land.
Application Fee: A payment to cover the processing costs by the government agency.

Once you receive the official approval, you are good to go. It’s like getting the green light to start building your duplex and bringing your vision to life. This procedure usually costs around N150,000 – N200,000.

3. Building Proper

With the plans approved and permits secured, it’s time for the exciting part; building your duplex! This stage involves skilled professionals like engineers or contractors who will oversee the entire process. Here is what you can expect:-

Site Preparation: This includes marking the boundaries of your land and potentially excavating trenches for foundations. This process can cost from N50,000 – N100, so depending on the size of the land and the labor used.
Laying the Foundation: A strong foundation is crucial for any building. This step involves pouring concrete or using other methods to create a solid base for your duplex. This stage is very important as it determines the longevity of a building. Expect to spend around N1 – N2 Million Naira at this building stage.
Building Up: The actual construction begins. This involves tasks like erecting columns, pouring floors, laying bricks, and creating lintels (beams above doorways and windows). The cost of this stage is determined by the quality of materials used and the quantity of cement consumed. Expect to Spend around N3 Million to N5 Million Naira for this stage of building.
Roofing: This stage completes the exterior shell of your duplex, protecting it from the elements. The cost of roofing depends on the type of roof that you choose for your duplex, if you choose an expensive roofing material, expect the cost to be high. Give or take, you will spend at least N2 Million Naira to complete the roofing process.
Finishing Touches: The finishing touches stage is where the real work is at, the real beauty of your duplex comes out once this stage is completed. This includes everything from plumbing and electrical work to installing doors, windows, and interior finishes. For this stage, your taste determines how much money you will spend; if you want high-end materials, get ready to spend. Expect to spend at least N10 Million Naira for the entirety of this stage. One word of advice though, ensure that you opt for quality materials to ensure the durability of your building.

The contractor or engineer will ensure each step is completed correctly, ensuring the successful construction of your duplex.

Building A Duplex in Nigeria: Top Tips for Success

Building a duplex in Nigeria can be an exciting and rewarding venture. But before you dive in, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful process:-

Planning and Preparation

Define Your Needs and Budget:-

How many units will you need?
What features are essential (e.g., number of bedrooms, bathrooms)?
Be realistic about your budget and potential ongoing costs (maintenance, utilities).

Secure the Right Land:-

Location is key. Consider factors like proximity to amenities, access to utilities, and potential future development in the area.
Ensure the land size comfortably accommodates your duplex design and adheres to local building regulations.

Assemble Your Team:-

Partner with a reputable architect who specializes in duplex design.
Find a qualified engineer to oversee the structural integrity of your duplex.
Consider hiring a project manager to keep the project on track and within budget.

Obtain Building Permits:-

Comply with all building codes and regulations set by the local authorities.
Apply for and obtain the necessary building permits before construction commences.

Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Costs:-

Don’t settle for the first contractor you meet.
Get quotes from several qualified contractors and compare pricing, experience, and references.

Focus on Quality Materials:-

While keeping costs in mind, don’t compromise on the quality of building materials.
Using sturdy materials ensures the longevity and safety of your duplex.

Prioritize Communication:-

Maintain clear communication with your architect, engineer, contractor, and workers throughout the building process.
Regularly address any concerns or questions you might have.

Schedule Inspections:-

Ensure relevant authorities conduct inspections at key stages of construction to guarantee adherence to building codes.

Plan for Unexpected Costs:-

Factor in a buffer of 10-15% in your budget to cover unforeseen expenses that may arise during construction.

Consider Sustainability:

Explore ways to incorporate sustainable features like solar panels or water-saving fixtures to reduce your environmental impact and potentially lower long-term running costs.

Building a duplex is a significant undertaking. By following these tips, you will have an idea of how much you will spend building a duplex in Nigeria.

Conclusion

Building a duplex in Nigeria is an exciting venture, but it requires careful planning and execution. This article has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the process effectively. From securing the right land and assembling a qualified team to obtaining permits and prioritizing quality materials, you now have a guide to follow.

Remember, clear communication with your team and regular inspections are important for a smooth construction phase. Do not forget to factor in a buffer for unexpected costs, and consider incorporating sustainable features for a future-proof duplex.