Recovery of Rent Arrears and Management of Difficult Tenants in Residential and Commercial Properties in Warri Delta State Nigeria.

• Author(s): Adah Okechukwu Uchenna ; Ingonabo Idholo ; Adarugo Elohor
• Paper ID: 1711057
• Page: 273-292
• Published Date: 07-10-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 4 October-2025

Abstract

This study examined the recovery of rent arrears and management of difficult tenants in residential and commercial properties in Warri, Delta State. The aim of this research was to address the persistent problem of rent arrears and the management of difficult tenants which have continued to pose significant challenges to landlords and property managers in Nigeria’s urban centres. The objectives of the study are: to investigate the major reasons behind rent payment default, to identify strategies and methods used to recover rent, to evaluate the challenges associated with managing difficult tenants, to proffer practical strategies for improving rent recovery and to evaluate the challenges associated with difficult and defaulting tenants of residential and commercial properties in Warri. The study employed a descriptive research design which provided a framework for systematic data gathering and analysis. The population for the study consisted of 7,400 landlords, legal practitioners, and tenants living and operating within Warri, Delta State. A statistically valid sample size of 379 respondents was calculated using the Taro Yamane formula. The study adopted a multi-stage sampling technique involving stratified and convenience sampling to ensure that different categories of stakeholders were adequately represented. Data were gathered through the use of a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics and questions tied directly to the research objectives. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, bar charts and standard deviation. The results indicated a high prevalence of rent renewal delays and default in Warri’s property market, mainly linked to economic hardship, unexpected job loss, high rent rates, weak tenancy agreement enforcement, poor property management practices, and sudden family expenses. The study found that landlords commonly rely on reminders, legal notices, professional legal services, negotiations, flexible instalment plans, and the threat of eviction to recover overdue rents, yet they still encounter challenges like costly legal actions, property damage, prolonged court processes, and reduced investment confidence. In conclusion, the research confirmed that rent arrears and the management of difficult tenants remain a major issue for landlords and property managers. To address this, stakeholders should adopt stricter tenancy agreements, employ professional managers, implement regular tenant vetting, provide reasonable payment options, pursue timely legal actions, and introduce reward schemes for prompt payments to ensure sustainable income and peaceful landlord-tenant relationships in Warri.

Keywords

Rent Arrears, Difficult Tenants, Rent Recovery, Property Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution

Citations

IRE Journals:
Adah Okechukwu Uchenna , Ingonabo Idholo , Adarugo Elohor "Recovery of Rent Arrears and Management of Difficult Tenants in Residential and Commercial Properties in Warri Delta State Nigeria." Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 4 2025 Page 273-292

IEEE:
Adah Okechukwu Uchenna , Ingonabo Idholo , Adarugo Elohor "Recovery of Rent Arrears and Management of Difficult Tenants in Residential and Commercial Properties in Warri Delta State Nigeria." Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(4)