Accommodation in Kenya

If you are moving to Kenya and unsure of what to expect, you will be pleasantly surprised by the range and quality of accommodation available. If you are European, in particular, you can look forward to finding more spacious accommodation than anything you’d be able to find back home.

Types of accommodation in Kenya

If you’re moving to Kenya, you’ll find a broad spectrum of rental properties perfect for various lifestyles and budgets. Choices range from standalone houses on spacious plots away from city centres to charming garden cottages, maisonettes, and luxurious villas. Downtown apartment blocks and townhouse complexes are also popular, especially in Nairobi.

Freestanding houses

Freestanding houses are a hit among expat families moving to Kenya. These properties often feature extensive gardens and entertainment areas, but they come at a price. You might find everything from simple bungalows to luxurious multi-storey homes.

Apartment blocks

Like most major cities, Kenya’s urban areas are dotted with apartments. High-rise buildings and secure smaller flats and townhouses are available. Apartments typically suit young and single expats looking for short-term rentals. Plus, apartment managers usually handle the upkeep, which means less hassle.

Gated complexes and estates

Gated complexes or estates are among Kenya’s most common expat accommodation options. These safe, securely walled-in communities offer houses and flats with shared amenities like swimming pools.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Accommodation in Kenya varies in terms of furnishings. Apartments often come fully furnished, a popular but pricier option. Most other properties come semi-furnished or unfurnished. Shipping furniture to Kenya can be a long, costly, and frustrating process, so buying locally might be easier. However, imported furniture is expensive, and local pieces can vary in quality. Furnishing your home is another crucial budget factor to consider.

Short-term lets

Renting expat accommodation in Kenya through platforms like Airbnb has become a popular choice, particularly in urban hubs like Nairobi and Mombasa. These short-term rentals offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to choose from a wide variety of properties, whether you’re staying for a few days or a couple of months. 

In Nairobi alone, the number of Airbnb listings has more than doubled in recent years, reflecting the growing demand for these types of accommodations. Whether you prefer a cosy apartment in the city centre or a serene beachfront property in Mombasa, the options are plentiful.

Useful links

• Airbnb

Finding accommodation in Kenya

Looking for accommodation in Kenya? Start with reliable online property portals like Property24, BuyRentKenya and PigiaMe. These platforms provide extensive listings and detailed information about various areas and suburbs, helping you plan your budget well before you leave your home country.

Don’t overlook the power of social media. Facebook groups, Instagram and TikTok offer real-time property listings and allow you to interact directly with property owners and agents. Networking through these platforms can lead you to some hidden gems in the local real estate market.

Engaging a real estate agent can also be highly beneficial. Agents possess in-depth market knowledge, access to exclusive listings, and strong negotiation skills. They’ll help you find a property matching your preferences and budget while also handling the paperwork, making your relocation smoother.

Useful links

• BuyRentKenya
• Property24 Kenya
• PigiaMe
• Jumia House

Renting accommodation in Kenya

Accommodation in Kenya can be pricey, and you might need to finance it yourself without employer support. This makes rent a significant monthly expense. If you are working in Kenya, it’s wise to negotiate a housing stipend in your employment contract, which is quite common here.

Leases

New arrivals looking to rent in Kenya must understand tenancy laws and what a rental contract entails. Scrutinise your lease carefully and consider enlisting the help of an estate agent or a specialist in Kenyan property law. Rental agreements typically range from three months to two years. If you plan to stay longer, you can negotiate to extend and renew your lease.

Leases in Kenya often favour landlords, but there are restrictions on rent increases. Landlords cannot raise the rent within the first 12 months of the tenancy or 12 months of the previous increase.

Deposits

Deposits in Kenya usually equate to three months’ rent, though some landlords may ask for one month’s rent. This deposit covers damages caused by tenants, though landlords are responsible for general repairs and basic wear and tear. Deposits are refundable at the end of the lease, but laws regarding deposits can be unclear. 

If you terminate the lease early, you might have to wait until the original end date to get your deposit back. Always give enough notice if you plan to leave early; landlords must also give notice before evicting tenants.

Home safety and security costs

Home safety is a concern in Kenya due to social inequality. Most expat accommodations have security measures, or you can install them easily. Typical security packages include stationed guards or night security guards, motion-sensor outdoor lighting, burglar bars on windows, panic buttons, and nighttime intruder alarms. Initially, this may seem overwhelming, but many tenants feel safe with these measures in place.

Townhouse complexes, known as gated communities or estates, offer added safety with security guards controlling access at a boom gate. Renting a private standalone house might mean bearing security costs unless covered by your employment contract. In gated estates, security systems are often included in the rent.

Utilities in Kenya

Utility bills are not usually included in rental prices and are an additional cost to tenants. You should be prepared to pay for your electricity, water, gas, and internet separately.

Electricity

Electricity costs in Kenya can vary based on usage. Payments are typically made directly to Kenya Power. You can pay your bills via mobile money platforms like M-Pesa, bank transfers, or at designated payment centres. Regularly check your bills for accuracy and request a breakdown of charges if needed.

Gas

Gas is commonly used for cooking in Kenya. A typical 29-pound (13kg) gas cylinder can last a month or more, depending on usage. Refilling your gas cylinder is straightforward, with many service stations and local shops offering refill services.

Water

The cost of water varies. Water bills are paid to local water service providers. Ensure you monitor your water usage to avoid high bills and promptly report any discrepancies to the service provider.

Bins and recycling

Waste management in Kenya includes municipal services and private companies. Local governments provide waste collection services in urban areas, but efficiency can vary. 

Private waste management companies offer regular pickups and recycling services for an additional fee. Community initiatives are also in place to improve waste management practices and promote recycling. Residents are encouraged to separate recyclables like plastics, paper, and metals from general waste.

Internet

Kenya has a competitive internet service provider (ISP) market. Popular options include Safaricom, Zuku, Telkom and Airtel. Service quality can vary, but major ISPs like Safaricom and Zuku generally provide reliable connections, especially in urban areas.

Useful links

• Kenya Power
• Safaricom
• Zuku
• Telkom Kenya