If you are looking to buy an apartment in Kenya, you have probably wondered what legal document you get as proof of ownership. You might have also come across the term “Sectional Title”, but what does it really mean? How does it affect your rights as a property owner?
A Sectional Title is a form of property ownership where individual units like, apartments or townhouses, are owned privately, while shared spaces such as lifts, parking areas, corridors, staircases and gardens are owned collectively by all the unit owners.
In Kenya, this type of ownership is governed by the Sectional Properties Act, 2020 which aims to streamline property ownership, especially in multi-dwelling buildings.
How Sectional Titles Work in Kenya
Under the Sectional Property Act, a building or complex can be subdivided into sections that can be independently owned. Each unit owner receives a title deed for their section and becomes a member of the management corporation that oversees shared property.
Here’s what you own:
Examples of Sectional Title Properties in Kenya:
Benefits of Sectional Title Ownership in Kenya
1. Individual Title Deed
Each unit has its own legal title, registered with the Ministry of Lands. This allows you to sell, lease, or even use the unit as collateral.
2. Shared Maintenance Costs
You only pay the maintenance fees, typically called service charges, based on the size of the unit.
3. Democratic Decision Making
Owners form a management committee or body corporate that makes key decisions regarding the property, giving you a say in how the building is run.
4. Secure Investment
With a registered title, your property rights are legally protected, and the asset can appreciate in value. This is ideal for real estate investors in Kenya.
Responsibilities of Sectional Title Owners
With ownership comes responsibility. As a sectional title owner, you are expected to:
Why Sectional Title is Popular in Kenya
The growing urban population and demand for affordable housing have made apartment living more popular in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Developers are now building more sectional title apartments because:
Conclusion: Is Sectional Title Right for You?
If you are considering buying property in Kenya, especially in urban areas, sectional title is a flexible, cost-effective, and secure form of ownership. It provides the independence of owning your own space with the benefits of shared services and community living.
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or simply looking for an apartment with proper documentation, sectional titles offer a solid legal foundation and peace of mind.
