How to Do a Land Search in Kenya

step-by-step guide on how to conduct a land search in Kenya

Thinking of buying land in Kenya?
Before signing that offer letter or sending your deposit, there's one crucial step you should never skip — a land search.

This essential process helps verify that the person selling the land is the rightful owner and that the land is free from disputes, caveats, or loans.

At Amcco Properties, we prioritize transparency, and we believe every buyer should be informed. Here’s how you can conduct a land search in Kenya like a pro:

✅ Step 1: Obtain a Copy of the Title Deed

Start by requesting a clear copy of the title deed from the seller or agent. This document contains vital details such as:

  • The land parcel number (e.g., Kiambu/Thigio Block 5/102)

  • The registered owner’s name

  • The land’s location and size

🔍 Tip: Verify that the title deed is official, untampered, and clearly legible.

✅ Step 2: Choose Between Manual or Online Search

You can conduct a land search either in person or online:

  • Manual Land Search: Visit the County Land Registry where the property is located.

  • Online Land Search: Use the eCitizen Portal at www.ecitizen.go.ke.

✅ Step 3: Submit the Land Search Request

Manual Process:

  • Complete Form RL26 at the Land Registry

  • Attach a copy of your ID and title deed

  • Pay a Ksh 500 search fee

Online Process via eCitizen:

  • Log into your account

  • Go to “Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning”

  • Select “Land Search”

  • Enter the title number

  • Pay via M-Pesa (Ksh 500)

✅ Step 4: Wait for the Search Results

  • Manual search: 2–3 business days

  • Online search: Often ready within minutes

The result will be a Search Certificate showing:

  • Current registered owner

  • Title deed status (clean or encumbered)

  • Any caveats, charges, or restrictions

✅ Step 5: Review and Interpret the Results

Your land search report should show:

  • A name match with the seller

  • Whether the land is charged to a bank or under dispute

  • Any caveats (legal restrictions or claims)

❗If anything looks suspicious or unclear — stop the process and seek legal advice.

✅ Step 6: Involve a Legal Expert

Even if the search looks okay, it's wise to engage a conveyancing lawyer to:

  • Authenticate the search results

  • Confirm land ownership documents

  • Guide the transaction to completion

✅ Step 7: Keep Your Land Search Certificate Safe

This document is proof that you performed due diligence before buying. Keep it securely filed, either digitally or in hard copy.

🛑 Why You Should Never Skip a Land Search

Many Kenyans have lost millions to land scams. Verbal promises and good faith are not enough. A simple Ksh 500 search could save you from years of legal battles or property loss.

🏡 Buying Land with Amcco Properties?

We conduct land searches in advance for all our projects — ensuring you're only buying clean, verified land with ready title deeds.

For more information or to view our latest plots in Kikuyu, Ngong, Zambezi, and more:

📞 Call: 0701 293 199
💬 Email: customerservice@amcco.co.ke
🌐 Website: www.amccopropertiesltd.co.ke

Amcco Properties – Where Trust Meets Land Ownership
#OwnYourFuture #VerifiedLand #AmccoGuarantee

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