The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed that residents living in government-owned housing estates must obtain official permission before installing solar panels or carrying out any structural modifications to their homes.

The Ministry of Housing restated the policy following recent complaints on social media about enforcement actions at the Lagos State Millennium Housing Estate. Officials said the rule is not new and has always been part of the conditions given to allottees at the point of allocation.

According to the Ministry, any change to buildings in these estates, including solar installations, requires prior approval to ensure safety and proper coordination within the housing environment.

The government explained that the directive is meant to protect shared facilities such as rooftops, walls, and water systems, which are commonly used by multiple households within the same building. It also aims to reduce risks linked to poor electrical work, including fire outbreaks and roof damage that have been reported in some cases.

Authorities added that some recent incidents involving leaking roofs and electrical fires were traced to unregulated solar panel installations carried out without proper technical standards.

Officials further noted that government housing blocks are designed as shared living spaces, sometimes accommodating several families in a single structure. Because of this, unapproved modifications by one resident could affect others in the same building.

The Ministry also highlighted that its guidelines cover technical standards such as wiring quality, panel placement, and the qualifications of installers. It also seeks to ensure fair access to rooftop space among residents who may want to install solar systems.

While maintaining the rules, the government said it remains open to feedback and continued engagement with residents. It encouraged all occupants of state-owned estates to follow established procedures to promote safety, order, and peaceful living conditions.