A Legal Checklist Before You Buy Land in Kenya
The searches, consents and practical checks that protect buyers before money changes hands in a Kenyan land transaction.
Read insight →Real Estate & Conveyancing
Property Due Diligence & Search Services
Thorough due diligence is the work that tells you whether a property deal is what it appears to be.
Overview
Before any property commitment, due diligence confirms that the seller owns what they are selling, that the property is free of unaccepted claims, and that it can be used for your intended purpose. We conduct searches and verify the position so you can proceed with confidence.
Who this service is for
- Buyers verifying a property before purchase
- Lenders confirming security
- Investors assessing a portfolio
- Developers checking a site before acquisition
Typical legal issues we address
- Official searches and registry verification
- Charges, cautions and restrictions
- Boundary and occupation checks
- Rates and rent arrears
- Required consents and approvals
- Discrepancies between documents and the registry
How we can assist
- Conducting and interpreting official searches
- Verifying ownership and encumbrances
- Coordinating physical and documentary checks
- Reporting clearly on risks before you commit
Our approach
We read search results carefully rather than at face value, and look beyond the registry to the property and its obligations in the real world, so nothing important is missed.
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Read insight →Frequently asked questions
What does a property search reveal?
It confirms the registered owner, the tenure and size of the parcel, and any registered charges, cautions or restrictions against the title.
Is the search enough on its own?
No. A complete exercise also includes a site visit, rates and rent clearance, spousal or family interests, and any required consents.
What are common red flags?
A reluctance to allow a formal search, a price well below market, pressure to pay quickly, or a recent transfer that does not reconcile with the records.
The information on this website is general in nature, is not legal advice, and does not create an advocate-client relationship. It should not be relied upon for any specific matter. Requirements may change and should be confirmed against the current law, regulations and regulator guidance before action is taken. Please contact Njau & Associates Advocates for advice on your circumstances.