Understanding contractor rates in Kenya is essential whether you're building a new home, renovating, or managing a commercial project. This guide covers current labour rates in Nairobi and across Kenya for 2026, including general contractors, fundis (artisans), and specialized tradespeople.
General Contractor Rates
General contractors (also called "main contractors") manage your entire project. They handle hiring workers, purchasing materials, and coordinating the build. There are two main payment models:
| Payment Model | Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Labour Only | KSh 2,500 – 4,500 per sqft | When you buy materials yourself |
| Labour + Materials | KSh 5,500 – 10,000+ per sqft | Turnkey (contractor handles everything) |
| Percentage of Build Cost | 10% – 20% of total cost | Common for large projects |
Fundi (Artisan) Daily Rates — Nairobi 2026
If you're managing the build yourself, you'll hire fundis directly. Here are the current daily rates in Nairobi:
| Trade | Daily Rate (KSh) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mason (Fundi wa Mawe) | KSh 1,200 – 2,000 | Experienced masons charge more |
| Carpenter (Fundi wa Mbao) | KSh 1,000 – 1,800 | Formwork, roofing, finishing |
| Plumber | KSh 1,500 – 2,500 | Often charged per point (KSh 800–1,500/point) |
| Electrician | KSh 1,500 – 2,500 | Often charged per point (KSh 500–1,000/point) |
| Painter | KSh 800 – 1,500 | Also charged per sqft (KSh 30–60) |
| Steel Fixer | KSh 1,200 – 2,000 | Also charged per tonne (KSh 8,000–12,000) |
| Tiler | KSh 1,200 – 2,000 | Also per sqm (KSh 300–600) |
| Foreman (Site Supervisor) | KSh 2,000 – 3,500 | Monthly: KSh 40,000 – 80,000 |
| Labourer (Casual) | KSh 600 – 1,000 | Unskilled, general site work |
Note: Rates in Nairobi are typically 20-40% higher than upcountry. Rates also increase during the dry/peak building season (January–March, July–September).
Specialized Contractor Rates
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Architectural Plans | KSh 30,000 – 150,000 |
| Structural Engineer | KSh 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Quantity Surveyor (BQ) | KSh 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Borehole Drilling | KSh 3,500 – 6,000 per metre |
| Septic Tank Installation | KSh 80,000 – 200,000 |
| Perimeter Wall (per metre) | KSh 3,000 – 6,000 |
How to Negotiate Contractor Rates
- Get at least 3 quotes — never hire the first contractor you meet. Compare rates from multiple sources.
- Agree on scope upfront — clearly define what's included (and excluded) before signing anything.
- Use a written contract — always have a written agreement covering scope, timeline, payment terms, and penalties for delays.
- Pay in milestones — never pay 100% upfront. Typical structure: 30% mobilization, 30% at roof level, 30% at finishing, 10% on completion.
- Check NCA registration — for larger projects, verify the contractor is registered with the National Construction Authority.
- Ask for references — visit their previous projects and talk to past clients.
Labour Only vs. Turnkey: Which is Better?
Labour Only (You Buy Materials)
- Pros: Cheaper overall (save 15-25%), you control material quality, less room for contractor markup
- Cons: Time-consuming, need construction knowledge, risk of buying wrong quantities
Turnkey (Contractor Handles Everything)
- Pros: Less stress, single point of responsibility, professional project management
- Cons: More expensive, less control over material choices, risk of cheaper substitutions
Find Verified Contractors in Nairobi
Compare verified contractors on JengaHub. Check their NCA registration, reviews, and request free quotes.
Browse ContractorsFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a contractor charge to build a 3-bedroom house in Kenya?
For labour only, expect KSh 2.5M – 5M for a standard 3-bedroom bungalow (1,200–1,500 sqft). Turnkey (labour + materials) typically costs KSh 5M – 12M depending on finish level. Use our cost estimator for a more accurate figure.
Should I hire individual fundis or a general contractor?
For small projects (renovations, fencing), individual fundis are fine. For a full house build, a general contractor or foreman is strongly recommended to coordinate the various trades and manage the timeline.
How do I verify a contractor in Kenya?
Check their NCA registration at our NCA guide, ask for references, visit past projects, and read reviews. On JengaHub, look for the "JengaHub Verified" badge.