In Kenya, all building contractors are legally required to be registered with the National Construction Authority (NCA). Hiring an unregistered contractor puts your project — and your money — at serious risk. Here's everything you need to know about NCA registration.
What is the NCA?
The National Construction Authority (NCA) is a government body established under the NCA Act of 2011. Its mandate is to regulate, streamline, and build capacity in Kenya's construction industry. All contractors must register with the NCA before undertaking any construction work.
Why NCA Registration Matters for Your Project
- It's the law: The NCA Act makes it illegal for unregistered contractors to undertake construction work. Both the contractor and the project owner can face penalties.
- County approvals require it: When applying for building permits, most counties require proof that your contractor is NCA-registered.
- Quality assurance: NCA registration means the contractor has been vetted for technical competence, financial capability, and past performance.
- Dispute resolution: If something goes wrong, the NCA can intervene and help resolve disputes between project owners and registered contractors.
- Insurance and liability: Registered contractors are more likely to carry proper insurance, which protects you in case of accidents or damage during construction.
NCA Contractor Categories Explained
The NCA classifies contractors into categories based on their capability to handle projects of different sizes:
| Category | Project Value Limit | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| NCA 1 | Unlimited | Major commercial, infrastructure |
| NCA 2 | Up to KES 500M | Large commercial buildings |
| NCA 3 | Up to KES 200M | Medium commercial, apartments |
| NCA 4 | Up to KES 100M | Large residential, small commercial |
| NCA 5 | Up to KES 50M | Residential houses, renovations |
| NCA 6 | Up to KES 20M | Small residential projects |
| NCA 7 | Up to KES 10M | Simple structures, extensions |
| NCA 8 | Up to KES 5M | Minor works, fencing, repairs |
For a typical 3-bedroom house (KES 3M–8M), an NCA 5, 6, or 7 contractor is usually sufficient. For larger homes or apartment buildings, look for NCA 3 or 4.
How to Verify a Contractor's NCA Registration
- Ask for their NCA certificate: Every registered contractor receives a certificate with their NCA number, category, and expiry date. Ask to see it.
- Check online: Visit the NCA website (nca.go.ke) and use their contractor search tool. Enter the contractor's name or NCA number to verify their status.
- Call the NCA: You can call the NCA offices directly to verify a contractor's registration status.
- Check the expiry date: NCA registration must be renewed annually. Make sure the registration is current, not expired.
Red Flags: Signs of an Unregistered Contractor
- Refuses to show NCA certificate or gives excuses about "renewal in progress"
- No formal company registration — operates as an individual with no business name
- No written contract — insists on verbal agreements
- Demands large upfront payment — asks for 50% or more before starting
- No references or portfolio — can't show completed projects
- Unusually low prices — if the quote is significantly below others, question the quality
NCA Registration Requirements (For Contractors)
If you're a contractor looking to register, you need:
- Company registration certificate
- KRA PIN certificate
- Tax compliance certificate
- Proof of technical personnel (qualified engineers, foremen)
- Proof of equipment ownership or lease
- Evidence of past project experience
- Registration fee (varies by category)
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