Boys' quarters (BQ)

The name dates from the colonial era, when domestic staff ("houseboys") lived in a separate building behind the main house. The building type stayed, and so did the name, though some agents now write "staff quarters" or "guest chalet".

In listings, "with BQ" is one of the most common selling points for houses: "4 bedroom detached duplex with BQ". A BQ can be:

• a single room with or without its own bathroom;
• a room self contain ("self contain BQ");
• a room and parlour or mini flat with its own kitchen;
• in larger homes, two or more units.

Because BQs are cheap to rent compared with the main house, "BQ for rent" is a common search in high-rent areas such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki and central Abuja, where it can be the only affordable way to live close to work.

Property Centre records a boys' quarters as an amenity on house listings, so it can count how many houses for sale are listed with one. The figures box shows the share.

Building or converting a BQ. Owners often build a BQ to earn rent or house staff. It should be shown on the approved building plan for the property; an unapproved BQ can cause problems when you sell or seek a mortgage.

• Lagos and Abuja: BQs are standard with detached and semi-detached duplexes; the figures box shows how common they are in listings.
• Other cities: common with older bungalows and GRA houses.
• Kenya: the equivalent is "DSQ" (domestic servant quarters); Ghana also uses "boys' quarters".