Land & Property Services Guide in Kenya

1. What is a land search?

An official land search helps an applicant obtain information held in the relevant land register for a parcel. Depending on the record, it may help establish the registered proprietor and identify registered interests or restrictions.

2. Information to prepare

Before starting an application, gather the details requested by the official service. These may include:

• The land's title number, parcel number or other accepted land reference.
• The county or location of the property.
• Your identification and eCitizen account details, if required.
• Any supporting documents requested by the relevant registry.

Important: An LR number or parcel number must be entered exactly as shown on the relevant document. Not every property record can be searched using the same reference format.

3. General steps for an official land search

1. Open the official Ministry of Lands website or the government service linked from it.
2. Sign in to the official account system if the service requires it.
3. Choose the relevant land search service.
4. Enter the requested parcel or title details carefully.
5. Review the information and follow the official payment instructions, if a fee applies.
6. Submit the application and keep the reference number and receipt.
7. Retrieve the result through the official process and seek clarification from the land registry if any details are unclear.

Online services and requirements may vary by record or registry. Follow the current instructions displayed by the official government service.

4. Before buying land

• Obtain a current official search and independently verify the records.
• Confirm the seller's identity and legal authority to sell.
• Ask a qualified advocate to review the title, sale agreement and relevant registered interests.
• Confirm boundaries and access on the ground with appropriate survey assistance.
• Check for relevant restrictions, cautions, charges, disputes or other issues recorded against the property.
• Use documented payment arrangements and keep receipts.
• Confirm the official transfer process and registration of the new ownership.

5. Land transfer and ownership changes

Land transfer procedures depend on the type of property, the parties involved and the applicable legal requirements. Supporting documents, tax clearances, consents or other approvals may be required in particular cases.

1. Ask an advocate to establish the requirements for the specific transaction.
2. Confirm the relevant documents and approvals with the responsible registry.
3. Use the official service for applications and payments where available.
4. Keep copies of submitted documents, receipts and correspondence.
5. Confirm that the transfer has been registered and obtain the relevant official records.

6. How to protect yourself from land fraud

• Never pay a stranger solely because they claim to own a property.
• Do not share your eCitizen password, one-time verification code or payment PIN.
• Avoid unofficial websites that promise guaranteed title searches or ownership changes.
• Verify suspicious documents directly with the relevant registry.
• Do not assume that paying for a search transfers ownership.

Need help understanding an online service?

ETG TV can help you understand the general steps for accessing online land services. For title interpretation, ownership disputes, purchase agreements and legal transactions, consult a qualified advocate.