What is a Duplex?

A duplex is a type of residential building that contains two separate living units within one structure, often sharing a common wall. These units can be side by side (semi-detached duplex) or stacked one above the other (terrace duplex). Duplex houses are popular in Nigeria, offering a blend of privacy and shared space, making them a preferred choice for both homeowners and real estate investors.

In Nigerian terms, a duplex is often seen as a symbol of status and success. It provides ample living space, usually featuring two floors with multiple bedrooms, living rooms, and other essential amenities. The design of a duplex house in Nigeria can range from simple and functional to luxurious, depending on the owner’s preferences and budget.

Duplex House Types

In Nigeria, duplex houses come in various forms, each with its unique characteristics. Understanding these types can help you make an informed decision when building or buying a duplex.

1. Semi-Detached Duplex: This is a duplex where two units share a common wall, but each unit has its own entrance. It’s a popular choice for those who want a bit of privacy while still sharing a building structure.
2. Terrace Duplex: Terrace duplexes are part of a row of similar houses connected side by side. Each unit has its own entrance, but they all share walls with neighboring units. This type is common in high-density areas where land is scarce.
3. Detached Duplex: A detached duplex is a standalone building with no shared walls. It offers complete privacy and is often larger and more expensive than other duplex types.
4. Townhouse Duplex: This is a blend of a townhouse and a duplex, offering a more compact living space, usually in urban areas. It’s ideal for those looking for modern living in the city.

How Much to Build a Duplex in Nigeria?

The cost of building a duplex in Nigeria varies depending on factors like location, design, and quality of materials used. Below is a breakdown of the key materials and their estimated costs. Note that these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and the specific location within Nigeria.

1. Land Acquisition

Before you start building, you need a plot of land. The cost varies significantly depending on the location. In places like Lagos or Abuja, land can cost anywhere from ₦10 million to ₦100 million or more.

2. Foundation

• Sand: Approximately 20 trips, now costing around ₦204,000 per trip – Total: ₦4.08 million.
• Granite: 15 trips, now costing around ₦244,800 per trip – Total: ₦3.672 million.
• Cement: 400 bags, now at ₦5,440 per bag – Total: ₦2.176 million.
• Iron Rods: 20 tons, now at ₦544,000 per ton – Total: ₦10.88 million.
• Labour: Labor costs for foundation work may now be around ₦2.72 million.

3. Structure of a Duplex House

• Blocks: About 4,000 blocks, now costing ₦544 per block – Total: ₦2.176 million.
• Cement: 300 additional bags, now at ₦5,440 per bag – Total: ₦1.632 million.
• Iron Rods: 15 tons, now at ₦544,000 per ton – Total: ₦8.16 million.
• Wood for Roofing: Approximately ₦2.72 million.
• Roofing Sheets: Depending on the material, roofing may now cost between ₦4.08 million to ₦8.16 million.
• Doors and Windows: High-quality doors and windows may now cost around ₦2.72 million to ₦6.8 million.

4. Finishing

• Electrical Wiring: Around ₦2.04 million.
• Plumbing: Approximately ₦1.632 million.
• Tiles: Depending on the quality, tiles may now cost ₦4.08 million to ₦6.8 million.
• Painting: Interior and exterior painting may now cost around ₦1.36 million to ₦4.08 million.
• Miscellaneous: Additional costs for items like fittings, gates, and landscaping may now total ₦4.08 million.

Total Estimated Cost of a Duplex House

With the inflation adjustment, building a standard duplex in Nigeria could now cost between ₦54.4 million to ₦136 million, depending on various factors.

How Many Blocks Can Build a Duplex?

When building a duplex, the number of blocks required depends on the design, size, and style of the building. On average, a standard duplex in Nigeria requires about 4,000 to 5,000 blocks. This number includes blocks for the foundation, walls, and other structural elements.

However, factors like the height of the building, the number of rooms, and the architectural design can influence the exact number. For instance, a more elaborate duplex house design may require more blocks due to additional features like extra rooms, balconies, or a more complex roof structure.

Conclusion

Building a duplex in Nigeria is a significant investment that requires careful planning and budgeting. From understanding what a duplex house is to breaking down the costs of materials and construction, this article provides you with the essential knowledge to embark on this journey. Whether you’re looking at a semi-detached duplex, a terrace duplex, or a luxury detached duplex, knowing the ins and outs of the building process will help you make informed decisions.

If you’re considering a duplex for sale or even thinking about the townhouse vs duplex debate, this guide serves as a valuable resource to get you started. Remember, the quality of your materials, the expertise of your contractors, and the location of your land will all play a crucial role in the final cost and outcome of your duplex project.

Invest wisely, and you could find yourself enjoying the comfort and status that comes with owning a beautifully designed duplex in Nigeria.