Quick answer
Most Nairobi landlords ask for one to two months' rent as a refundable deposit plus the first month upfront. Always insist on a written tenancy agreement, a signed inventory with photos, and clarity on who pays service charge, water and garbage collection.
What you actually pay on day one
Budget the first month's rent, a refundable deposit of one to two months, and in many buildings a separate water and electricity deposit. Some managed estates also charge a one-off tenancy or agency administration fee — ask for it in writing before you commit.
- Confirm whether service charge is inside or outside the quoted rent.
- Ask who pays for borehole water, garbage and security.
- Check the escalation clause — annual increases should be capped and stated.
Inspect like a professional
Run every tap, flush every toilet, test the shower pressure, open and close every window, and check the fuse board. Visit once in the evening to gauge security lighting, noise and parking pressure.
Photograph existing damage and attach the photos to a signed inventory. This single step resolves most deposit disputes at the end of a tenancy.
Your rights and the paperwork
Insist on a written tenancy agreement stating rent, deposit, notice period, repair responsibilities and grounds for termination. Pay rent into an account in the landlord's or agent's registered name and keep every receipt.
Disputes over rent, deposits and eviction for controlled tenancies are heard by the Business Premises Rent Tribunal or the courts; documented payments and correspondence decide most cases.
Frequently asked questions
- How much deposit do landlords ask for in Nairobi?
- Typically one to two months' rent as a refundable deposit, paid alongside the first month's rent. Furnished and serviced units sometimes require more.
- What notice must a tenant give in Kenya?
- Most residential tenancy agreements require one month's written notice from either party. Always check the clause in your specific agreement, as some fixed-term leases require longer.
- Can a landlord increase rent at any time?
- Rent increases must follow the tenancy agreement. Reputable landlords review annually with written notice; sudden mid-term increases without a contractual basis can be challenged.