5 Things to Know Before Hiring a Contractor in Kenya
Hiring a contractor in Kenya is one of the most important decisions you will make when building, renovating, or managing a commercial project. At Pawil Ventures Ltd, we’ve seen how the right contractor ensures quality workmanship, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness, while the wrong choice can lead to delays, budget overruns, and frustration.
Below are the five essential things you should check before hiring a contractor in Kenya.
1. Verify Licensing & Insurance
Before signing any agreement, confirm your contractor has the required certifications, permits, and insurance coverage. This step protects you legally and financially throughout the project.
What to Check:
- A valid contractor’s license in Kenya
- General liability insurance (covers property damage)
- Workers’ compensation insurance (covers on-site injuries)
Why it matters: Without proper licensing and insurance, you could be personally liable for accidents, injuries, or damages during construction. You can verify registration details on the National Construction Authority Kenya portal.
2. Experience & Reputation Matter
A contractor’s history is more telling than promises. Always verify their track record before committing.
How to Verify:
- Read reviews on Google, Facebook, or LinkedIn
- Request references from past clients
- Review their portfolio of completed projects
Red Flags:
- Many negative reviews across platforms
- No evidence of past work or portfolio
- Unwillingness to provide references
3. Always Get a Written Contract
Verbal agreements are risky and often lead to disputes. A clear, written contract protects both parties and sets expectations.
Your Contract Should Include:
- Detailed scope of work and project timeline
- Cost breakdown (materials, labour, fees)
- Payment schedule (avoid paying 100% upfront)
- Warranty details and dispute resolution terms
Pro tip: Avoid contractors who request large upfront payments — this can indicate cashflow or reliability issues.
4. Understand Payment Terms
Professional contractors offer transparent and structured payment schedules to reduce risk for both parties.
Standard Payment Structure:
- 10–30% deposit before work commences
- Milestone payments tied to project progress
- Final payment after completion and inspection
Warning Signs:
- Requests for full payment before starting
- No written cost estimate
- Frequent “extra” charges without justification
5. Communication Is Key
Strong communication prevents delays, misunderstandings, and costly mistakes. Therefore, set expectations early about how you’ll be updated.
Before Hiring, Ask:
- Their preferred communication method (email, phone, site meetings)
- Who will be your main point of contact
- How often you will receive progress updates
Red flag: If they’re difficult to reach before signing, expect more communication issues later.
Why Choose Pawil Ventures Ltd?
At Pawil Ventures Ltd, we deliver high-quality construction services in Nairobi, civil engineering, and project management. In addition, we combine transparency, craftsmanship, and clear communication to bring your vision to life — on time and within budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the right contractor in Kenya requires careful verification, clear contracts, sensible payment terms, and strong communication. By following the five steps above, you protect your investment and reduce the risk of costly problems.
Ready to start your next building or renovation project? Contact Pawil Ventures Ltd today to discuss your needs and get a reliable quote. Request a consultation or call us to get started.
