In many countries around the world, including Kenya, before any construction work begins, it’s a legal requirement to have a building permit. This permit is a document issued by the relevant government department or agency, permitting the construction of a new or existing building. The building permit process in Kenya involves several procedural steps, each with its own set of requirements and costs. This article will help you understand this process better, and provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of the necessary requirements and costs involved.
Understanding the Building Permit Process in Kenya
The process of acquiring a building permit in Kenya is not as complicated as it may sound. It kicks off with the submission of a duly filled building permit application form to the County Government. The application should be accompanied by architectural and structural drawings of the proposed building, a copy of the title deed or lease, and a duly filled physical planning form. Once these documents are submitted, they are scrutinized for compliance with building codes and regulations.
The next phase involves inspection of the site by officials from the County Government. This is to ensure that the proposed construction is suitable for the location. If the site is deemed fit and the documents compliant with the building codes, the application is approved and the permit issued. However, it’s important to note that this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the project and the efficiency of the county government.
Then comes the approval phase. The approval can either be granted or denied based on various factors such as adherence to zoning laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations among others. If the approval is granted, the construction can commence under the supervision of a registered architect or engineer to ensure it aligns with the submitted drawings.
Breaking Down the Requirements and Costs of Kenyan Building Permits
The first requirement for a building permit is a filled application form. This form requires details about the property owner, the contractor, the nature of the construction, and the estimated cost of the project. You will also need architectural and structural drawings, a copy of the title deed or lease, and a filled physical planning form. Moreover, you might need to provide a project report for larger projects.
In terms of costs, the application fee for the building permit varies depending on the county and the nature of the building. For instance, in Nairobi, residential buildings are charged at a rate of 0.15% of the estimated cost of construction while commercial buildings are charged at a rate of 1% of the estimated cost of construction. There can also be additional costs such as architectural fees, structural engineer fees, and other miscellaneous costs.
The approval or denial of a permit also bears a cost. If your application is denied, you will have to pay a ‘refusal fee’ which varies depending on the county. On the other hand, if it’s approved, an ‘approval fee’ must be paid before the permit is issued. The amount also varies from county to county. It’s important to note that the costs associated with obtaining a building permit in Kenya can add substantially to the overall cost of the project.
Acquiring a building permit in Kenya is an essential step before commencing any construction project. As highlighted in this article, there are numerous requirements and costs involved in this process. It is, therefore, crucial for property owners and contractors to understand these requirements and budget appropriately. Always remember that failure to acquire a building permit can lead to legal complications and possible demolition of the building. Thus, to avoid such situations, always ensure you have the necessary permits before starting any construction project.
