Real Estate Licensing in Kenya

Overview

Real estate practice in Kenya is regulated by the Estate Agents Act (Cap 533) of the Laws of Kenya. All estate agents must be licensed and registered with the relevant authorities to legally conduct real estate business in the country.

Regulatory Bodies

Estate Agents Registration Board (EARB)

The primary regulatory body responsible for licensing and regulating estate agents in Kenya.

  • • Issues practicing licenses
  • • Conducts examinations
  • • Enforces professional standards
  • • Handles complaints and disciplinary matters

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)

Oversees tax compliance for real estate transactions and agent income.

  • • PIN registration for agents
  • • VAT compliance
  • • Income tax obligations
  • • Stamp duty collection

Licensing Requirements

Individual Agent License

  • • Must be at least 18 years old
  • • Possess a minimum of KCSE Certificate or equivalent
  • • Complete approved estate agency training course
  • • Pass the Estate Agents Registration Board examination
  • • Provide two referees
  • • Pay prescribed license fees
  • • Maintain professional indemnity insurance

Company License

  • • Must be registered under the Companies Act
  • • At least one director must hold an individual license
  • • Maintain proper business records
  • • Comply with anti-money laundering regulations
  • • Pay annual license renewal fees

Code of Conduct

Licensed estate agents in Kenya are required to adhere to a strict code of professional conduct, including:

  • • Acting with honesty, integrity, and impartiality
  • • Maintaining client confidentiality
  • • Avoiding conflicts of interest
  • • Providing accurate property information
  • • Complying with anti-discrimination laws
  • • Continuing professional development

License Renewal

Estate agent licenses must be renewed annually. Requirements for renewal include:

  • • Payment of renewal fees
  • • Completion of continuing professional education (CPE)
  • • Maintenance of professional indemnity insurance
  • • Good standing with no disciplinary actions

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Unlicensed practice or violation of regulations may result in:

  • • Fines up to KSh 1,000,000
  • • Imprisonment for up to 5 years
  • • License suspension or revocation
  • • Civil liability for damages

Contact Information

Estate Agents Registration Board

P.O. Box 13445-00100
Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254 20 2719231
Email: info@earb.or.ke
www.earb.or.ke

Kenya Revenue Authority

P.O. Box 48240-00100
Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254 20 2810000
Website: www.kra.go.ke