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Before you sign a tenancy agreement in Kenya: deposits, terms and move-in checks
What to check before renting a house in Kenya — deposits, the tenancy agreement, utilities, and a move-in inspection checklist that protects your deposit when you leave.
By the UrbanEstate Kenya team 6 min read
Most disputes between landlords and tenants — especially over deposits — come from things nobody wrote down at the start. Spend an hour on these checks and you avoid weeks of arguments later.
Understand the money upfront
- First month's rent — paid before you move in.
- Rent deposit — commonly one month's rent, sometimes more. Agree in writing when and how it will be refunded.
- Utility deposits — some buildings ask for a separate water deposit.
- Service charge — for apartments, ask whether it's included in the rent.
- Agent's fee — if an agent is involved, agree who pays it and how much before you view.
Read the tenancy agreement
Insist on a written agreement. It should name the landlord (or managing agent) with contact details, the exact unit, the monthly rent and due date, the deposit amount and refund terms, the notice period for both sides, who handles which repairs, and any rules about rent increases, subletting, pets or running a business from the house.
Check utilities before you commit
- Water: how many days a week does it flow? Is there a tank or borehole?
- Electricity: prepaid token meter or postpaid? Is the meter for your unit only?
- Mobile signal and internet providers available in the building.
Move-in inspection checklist
On moving day, walk through every room with the landlord or caretaker and note the condition. Take dated photos and both sign the list. Check:
- Walls and ceilings — cracks, damp, peeling paint.
- Floors, doors, windows, locks and keys (count them).
- Taps, shower, toilet flush, sinks and drainage.
- Sockets, switches, bulbs and the meter reading.
- Kitchen fittings, wardrobes, burglar-proofing and any furniture.
When you move out
Give notice in writing as the agreement requires, repeat the inspection with the landlord, and compare against your move-in photos. Fair wear and tear is normal; damage beyond that can be deducted. Agree the refund date in writing.
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