Block of flats (apartment block)

A block of flats is one building containing several homes. Each flat is self-contained, with its own kitchen and bathrooms, and residents share the stairs, compound, water system and often a generator.

As an investment. Property Centre lists whole blocks for sale under Houses, "Block of flats". Buyers are usually investors who plan to let each flat. Listings describe the mix: "block of 4 flats of 3 bedroom", "6 units of 2 bedroom", "block of mini flats", sometimes with shops on the ground floor.

As a home. If you rent a single flat in a block, it is listed as a flat. You may pay a service charge for shared costs.

What drives value. The number and size of flats, the area's rent levels, the condition of the building and how many flats are occupied. An investor will want to see the current tenancies, rent receipts and the service-charge arrangements.

Common configurations. Listings describe blocks by the number and size of flats and the number of floors. Smaller blocks on a single plot often hold four flats over two floors; larger ones in Lagos and Abuja run to several storeys with a mix of flat sizes, sometimes with mini flats or shops on the ground floor. Some owners build a block with their own home on the top floor and let the rest.

Running a block. Owners usually appoint a caretaker or facility manager to collect rent and service charge, keep the generator and water system working, and handle repairs. Under Lagos law, tenants can ask for a written account of service-charge spending, so keep records.

Selling with tenants in place. Buying a block with sitting tenants means inheriting their tenancies. Their rents and notice rights continue under the law, so review each agreement before you buy.

• Lagos: blocks of flats are common across the mainland (Surulere, Yaba, Ikeja, Ogba, Gbagada) and in Lekki and Ajah.
• Abuja: common in districts and satellite towns, often three or four storeys.
• Other cities: often two-storey blocks of four flats.