Buying Land in Lombok: Check These 7 Important Things

Thursday, 30 April 2026

Buying land in Lombok is like falling in love. It seems beautiful at first, but if you’re not careful, it can end up being complicated later. This is especially true now that Lombok is becoming a popular property investment destination. Many people are tempted by prices that are still “reasonable” compared to Bali, but that’s where extra care is crucial.

So, before you rush into a deal, there are 7 crucial things you must check.

1.Ensure Clear Land Ownership Status

This is the most basic but often overlooked step. You must know who the original owner of the land is.

Check the land certificate (SHM or other title), ensure the name on the document matches the seller’s, and there are no disputes. If necessary, involve a notary or legal representative to be safe. In some cases, land has more than one claim to ownership.

2.Check Land Taxes

It may sound trivial, but unpaid taxes can be a major problem.

If the previous owner has outstanding taxes, you could have difficulty obtaining building permits or other administrative requirements. So before making a transaction, make sure all taxes have been paid.

3.Pay Attention to Zoning

Not all land can be used to build villas, hotels, or businesses.

Some land falls into green zones, agricultural zones, or areas that are prohibited from development. So it’s crucial to ensure the land is zoned appropriately for your goals, whether you want to build a villa, resort, or simply for a long-term investment.

4.Obtain a Building Permit (IMB / PBG)

Owning land doesn’t mean you’re free to build anything you want. You still need an official permit, such as an IMB, now known as a PBG. Without this permit, your building could be considered illegal and even risk demolition.

5.Road Access and Infrastructure

Good land without road access is useless.

Ensure there’s legal access to the site (not just a “footpath that’s supposedly allowed”), and also check for utilities like electricity, water, and internet. These things significantly impact the investment value and ease of future development.

6.Land Boundaries and Actual Size

Sometimes the area is a certain amount on paper, but in practice, it’s a different story.

Always check land boundaries directly, re-measure if necessary, and ensure there are no overlaps with neighboring land. This is important to avoid future conflicts.

7.Understand the Legal System for Investors (Especially Foreigners)

If you’re a foreign investor, this is absolutely essential.

In Indonesia, foreigners cannot own land with full freehold status. They usually use schemes such as Right to Use or Right to Build or through a company.

Land investment in Lombok has huge potential. Prices are still relatively affordable, tourism continues to rise, and many areas are yet to be fully developed.

But remember, a good investment isn’t just about location—it also involves security and legality. So before you’re tempted by a beach view or a low price, make sure you’ve checked all the 7 things above.