The construction industry in Kenya is regulated by various government authorities to ensure compliance with set building codes and safety standards. Before commencing any real estate project, necessary approvals must be obtained from all the required agencies to facilitate uninterrupted construction process. The following are 4 key approvals required before a construction project.
Obtain a Survey Plan from a Surveyor
The first step to getting a building permit is consulting a registered surveyor in your vicinity to obtain a survey plan, a necessary component of your application. A survey plan serves as an official document that shows the exact size and boundaries of your property. Before receiving the survey plan, you must provide a title deed as proof of land ownership.
Building plan approval
Approval of building plans is mandatory in Kenya for all construction projects regardless of size or nature. The plans consist of architectural and structural drawing plans which are submitted to the county planning department for approval. Additionally, the building designs undergo scrutiny by the county’s departments of Public Health, Fire, Energy, Roads and Public Works, along with Water and sanitation. These entities evaluate the plans to ensure they adhere to set safety and design criteria. Once the the building plans pass these checks, they receive an official stamp and a license is granted.
NEMA Approval
The Environmental Management and Coordination act 2018 highlights that any project with potential harm to the environment must obtain required approval before commencing. The act requires the preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment report (EIA) by a registered professional after which a license is granted on the project meeting the environmental set standards and regulations.
Registration of project National construction authority (NCA)
Beyond the county’s approval process, an additional layer of oversight exists in Kenya’s construction industry. NCA ensures that every construction site adheres to the set quality standards in the construction industry. This means registering your project with NCA, which will verify you have a qualified contractor on board, prioritize worker safety, and utilize approved construction methods and materials.
Securing the necessary permits is crucial before commencing any real estate project in Kenya. This ensures compliance with building codes, environmental regulations, and industry best practices. By obtaining a survey plan, NEMA clearance, and registering with the NCA gives your project a solid foundation for success.
