How to Build a Residential Apartment Complex in Kenya: Costs and Guide

Building a residential apartment in Kenya can be a profitable investment, especially with the growing demand for affordable housing. A well-planned 1-2 bedroom apartment complex with multiple floors and units—ranging from 25 to 32 units—can generate steady rental income. The key to a successful project is careful budgeting, smart material choices, and hiring the right professionals.

Finding and Purchasing Land

The cost of land in Kenyan cities varies depending on location. In the outskirts of major towns like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret, land prices start from Ksh 400,000 per eighth-acre plot. This size is enough to build a multi-unit apartment complex with efficient planning. Prices increase in areas closer to town centers, sometimes exceeding Ksh 5 million per similar plot.

When buying land, it’s crucial to verify ownership through the Ministry of Lands and check zoning regulations. Some areas restrict high-rise buildings, while others encourage apartment developments. Hiring a land surveyor and a lawyer can help prevent legal complications before construction begins.

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Designing the Apartment Complex

A practical design is essential for cost efficiency. A simple structure with minimal corners, uniform floor plans, and shared facilities like staircases and balconies reduces construction costs. A typical floor can have 4 to 6 units, with ground space allocated for parking and walkways.

Each residential apartment can feature a living area, a kitchenette, one or two bedrooms, and a bathroom. The total built-up area depends on the number of floors. A five-story building can accommodate 25 units, while a seven-story building can have 32 units. Working with an experienced architectural team, such as Marble Engineering, ensures that the design maximizes space while maintaining aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

Foundation and Structural Costs

The foundation is one of the most expensive parts of the construction process. For a five-story apartment building, the foundation costs range from Ksh 3 million to Ksh 6 million, depending on soil conditions and design complexity. Stronger foundations are required for taller buildings, increasing costs.

Structural components such as columns, beams, and slabs form the core of the building. Reinforced concrete is commonly used, with costs for materials and labor ranging from Ksh 30,000 to Ksh 50,000 per square meter. Using prefabricated materials can help cut down costs and speed up construction.

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Walling, Roofing, and Flooring

Walling is done using machine-cut stones or concrete blocks. The cost of stones varies by location, but on average, each stone costs Ksh 50, with total walling expenses reaching Ksh 2 million to Ksh 4 million.

Apartment roofing costs depends on the material used. Metal sheet roofing is common and costs Ksh 1,000 to Ksh 1,500 per square meter. If a flat concrete roof is preferred for future expansion, costs increase but add value to the building.

Flooring costs depend on the type of finish selected. Ceramic tiles are affordable and range from Ksh 800 to Ksh 2,500 per square meter. Other options, such as polished concrete, can be cheaper while maintaining a modern appearance.

Plumbing, Electrical, and Finishing Costs

Plumbing and electrical installations are critical for apartment functionality. The cost for piping, wiring, and fittings ranges from Ksh 1.5 million to Ksh 3 million for a 25 to 32-unit apartment. Quality electrical cables, water tanks, and plumbing fixtures should be used to avoid frequent repairs.

Interior finishing involves plastering, painting, window installation, and door fittings. Good quality paints cost around Ksh 400 per liter, while standard wooden or steel doors range from Ksh 8,000 to Ksh 20,000 each. The total finishing cost can range from Ksh 3 million to Ksh 6 million, depending on material selection.

Total Estimated Costs

For a standard five-story apartment with 25 units, the total cost breakdown is as follows:

Land Purchase: Ksh 400,000 to Ksh 5 million (depending on location)
Foundation: Ksh 3 million to Ksh 6 million
Structural Work: Ksh 30,000 to Ksh 50,000 per square meter
Walling: Ksh 2 million to Ksh 4 million
Roofing: Ksh 1.5 million to Ksh 3 million
Flooring: Ksh 1.5 million to Ksh 3 million
Plumbing and Electrical: Ksh 1.5 million to Ksh 3 million
Finishing: Ksh 3 million to Ksh 6 million

A residential apartment complex project in Kenya can costfrom Ksh 30 million to Ksh 60 million, depending on materials, labor, and location. If a seven-story building with 32 units is constructed, costs increase due to additional structural reinforcements and finishes.

Maximizing Cost Efficiency with Marble Engineering

A cost-effective project requires experienced professionals to oversee design, budgeting, and execution. Marble Engineering, a leading design and build company, specializes in affordable apartment projects. Their team ensures quality construction while optimizing costs through efficient design and material selection, from prefabricated materials to sustainable designs.

By working with experts, you avoid unnecessary expenses and benefit from streamlined project management. Marble Engineering provides comprehensive services, including architectural planning, structural engineering, and interior finishing, ensuring that your apartment project is completed on time and within budget.

Rental Income and Return on Investment

A well-located apartment complex generates steady rental income. In areas like Nairobi’s outskirts, a one-bedroom unit rents for Ksh 12,000 to Ksh 18,000 per month, while a two-bedroom unit fetches Ksh 18,000 to Ksh 30,000.

For a 25-unit apartment with 15 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units, potential monthly earnings are:

15 one-bedroom units × Ksh 15,000 = Ksh 225,000
10 two-bedroom units × Ksh 25,000 = Ksh 250,000
Total Monthly Income: Ksh 475,000

In a year, rental income can reach Ksh 5.7 million, meaning the initial construction cost can be recovered within 5 to 10 years, depending on loan financing and maintenance expenses.

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Conclusion

Building a 1-2 bedroom apartment complex in Kenya is a profitable investment when planned carefully. By selecting the right location, optimizing design, sourcing quality materials, and working with an expert construction firm like Marble Engineering, you can reduce costs while ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

With rental demand increasing in major towns, now is the perfect time to invest in an apartment project. Contact Marble Engineering today to start your journey toward owning a high-value rental property.