Falling of Houses in Kenya

Government Measures and Developer–Constructor Engagement
In recent years, Kenya has faced numerous cases of buildings collapsing during construction, especially in major urban centers like Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, and Kisumu. This problem has not only caused loss of lives but also affected investor confidence, slowed real estate growth, and raised questions about the professionalism and accountability in the construction sector. The issue has become a national concern, prompting the government to implement stricter policies, reforms, and monitoring systems to restore safety and public trust.

One of the main causes of these structural failures has been the use of unqualified contractors and poor-quality materials. Many developers have tried to cut costs by hiring informal builders who lack technical training or fail to follow approved architectural plans. Some also ignore required soil tests, leading to weak foundations that cannot support the building’s weight. In response, the National Construction Authority (NCA) was established to regulate the construction industry and ensure that only registered and certified contractors are allowed to operate. The NCA now keeps a database of licensed contractors, engineers, and building inspectors. Developers are encouraged—and in many cases required—to verify the registration of their contractors through the NCA’s system before starting any construction.

Additionally, the National Building Code of 2024, revised from earlier regulations, has strengthened the legal framework for safety and compliance. It provides clear guidelines on design standards, supervision, use of materials, and inspection stages during construction. The government has also directed that all new buildings must undergo structural integrity tests and receive approval from county physical planning departments before occupation. County governments, through the Department of Urban Planning and Housing, have been tasked with ensuring that construction permits are only issued after detailed technical evaluation.

To further curb the problem, the government has launched a multi-agency inspection task force involving NCA, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and local authorities. This team carries out random site inspections, checks building materials for authenticity, and verifies that site supervisors follow safety procedures. Any developer or contractor found violating building standards faces penalties such as demolition orders, license revocation, or even imprisonment. The government has also opened reporting hotlines for citizens to report suspicious construction activities in their neighborhoods.

Developers in Kenya are becoming more cautious when engaging constructors due to these incidents and the tightening of regulations. Most developers now demand detailed portfolios, professional credentials, and proof of registration from their contractors. The engagement process typically begins with the tendering or bidding stage, where different contractors present their proposals. The developer then evaluates them based on experience, pricing, and past project quality. Once a contractor is selected, both parties sign a construction agreement, which outlines responsibilities, payment schedules, timelines, and standards to be followed.

Modern developers also employ independent consultants such as structural engineers, quantity surveyors, and architects to supervise the progress of construction and ensure adherence to professional standards. This collaboration minimizes risks, ensures accountability, and helps deliver durable and safe structures. Moreover, insurance policies are now a requirement for many construction projects. Developers and constructors must have construction liability insurance, which compensates victims in case of accidents or collapses.

In conclusion, the frequent falling of houses in Kenya has been a wake-up call to both government and private stakeholders. It has led to the reinforcement of construction laws, stricter supervision, and a push for professionalism in the industry. Through the efforts of the National Construction Authority, county governments, and vigilant developers, the safety and quality of buildings are gradually improving. The partnership between developers and constructors, grounded in transparency and accountability, is becoming the key to sustainable urban development and the prevention of future construction tragedies in Kenya.