Renting in Kenya Made Easy: The Only Checklist You’ll Ever Need

Renting in Kenya can be a minefield of hidden fees, unreliable landlords, and confusing lease terms. Whether you’re searching in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, or other towns, knowing the essentials of renting in Kenya will save you money, stress, and potential legal issues.

This guide covers the 10 most critical questions to ask before committing to an apartment—ensuring you get a fair deal, a safe home, and a smooth renting experience.

1. What’s Included in the Rent? (And What Are the Hidden Costs?)

Some apartments in Kenya include utilities like water and garbage collection, while others charge them separately. Why this matters: A KSh 25,000 apartment that includes water and garbage could be cheaper than a KSh 22,000 unit where you pay an extra KSh 3,000+ monthly for utilities.

Dig deeper:

• Are there utility caps? Some landlords charge extra if you exceed a certain water or electricity limit.
• How is electricity billed? Is it prepaid (e.g., Kenya Power tokens) /postpaid/ charged by the Landlord?
• Is there a service charge? Some high-end apartments add maintenance fees (e.g., KSh 2,000–5,000/month).

2. How Much Is the Security Deposit, and What Are the Refund Conditions?

Most Kenyan landlords require 1–2 months’ rent as a deposit (e.g., KSh 30,000–60,000 for a KSh 30,000/month apartment).

Key questions:

• Is the deposit refundable? Some agents deduct “cleaning fees” unfairly.
• Are there non-refundable fees? Admin fees may apply.
• When will I get my deposit back? Some landlords delay refunds for weeks.

3. What’s the Lease Term and Renewal Policy?

Most Kenyan rentals have 1-year leases, but some offer shorter terms.

Ask:

• Can I get a 6-month lease? Useful if you’re unsure about long-term stays.
• What happens if I break the lease early? Some charge 2–3 months’ rent as a penalty.
• Will rent increase upon renewal? Many landlords raise rent by 5–10% yearly.

4. Are There Any Extra Fees?

Hidden costs can make an affordable apartment expensive.

Common fees in Kenya:

• Parking: KSh 1,500–5,000/month (especially in Nairobi).
• Amenities: Gym or pool access may cost extra (KSh 2,000–10,000/month).
• Late rent penalty: Usually 5–10% of rent (e.g., KSh 1,500–3,000 for KSh 30,000 rent).

5. How Are Repairs and Maintenance Handled?

A slow landlord can leave you stuck with leaking taps or broken lights.

Ask:

• Who handles repairs? Some landlords send fundis directly; others go through agents.
• What’s considered an emergency? A burst pipe should be fixed ASAP, not in “3–5 business days.”
• Are there maintenance charges? Some apartments charge KSh 500–2,000/month for general upkeep.

6. What’s the Parking Situation?

In cities like Nairobi, parking is a major issue.

Key details:

• Is parking free, assigned, or paid? Some charge KSh 3,000–10,000/month for a slot.
• Is there guest parking? Many apartments don’t allow visitor parking.
• Is it secure? Ask about guards or CCTV to prevent break-ins.

7. How’s the Cell Service and Internet Availability?

Poor network or slow Wi-Fi can be frustrating.

Check:

• Which providers are available? Safaricom Home Fibre? Zuku? Jamii Telecom?
• Is there a preferred provider? Some buildings have exclusive deals.
• Test your phone signal in different rooms—some areas have weak reception.

8. What’s the Neighborhood Like?

A nice apartment in a bad area isn’t worth it.

Research:

• Security: Are there police patrols or neighborhood watches?
• Noise levels: Is it near clubs, churches, or construction sites?
• Convenience: How far are supermarkets (Naivas, Carrefour), hospitals, and matatu stops?

9. Can I See the Exact Unit I’ll Be Renting?

Some agents show a “sample” apartment, but yours could be in worse condition.

Inspect for:

• Water pressure (run taps and flush toilets).
• Pest signs (cockroaches, bedbugs, rats).
• Functioning appliances (stove, geyser, sockets).

Pro tip: Take dated photos/videos before moving in to avoid deposit disputes.

10. What Are the House Rules?

Some landlords have strict policies.

Ask about:

Noise restrictions: Can you host parties or play music late?

Guest policies: Can friends stay overnight?

Pet rules: Are dogs/cats allowed? (Some charge KSh 5,000+ extra.)

Final Advice for Renting in Kenya

• Compare multiple places before deciding.
• Get everything in writing—verbal promises don’t count.
• Trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away.

By asking these questions, you’ll avoid nasty surprises and find a home that fits your budget, safety, and lifestyle needs in Kenya.

Happy house hunting! 🏡