Understanding the types of land title deeds in Kenya is essential if you’re planning to buy, sell, lease, or develop land. A title deed is the official legal document proving land ownership. However, not all title deeds are the same—there are different types, each issued under different land laws and with different legal implications.
In Kenya, there are three main types of title deeds, and knowing their differences can protect you from fraud, disputes, or legal complications.
- Freehold Title Deed (Absolute Ownership)
A Freehold Title Deed, also known as a Title Deed under the Registered Land Act (RLA) or Absolute Proprietorship, gives the owner full and indefinite ownership of the land.
Key Features:
- Ownership is permanent with no time limit
- Owner has full rights to use, sell, lease, transfer, or develop the land
- Mostly issued for agricultural and residential land
- No land rent is payable to the government
Ideal for:
- Private home construction
- Agricultural investment
- Long-term landholding
Note: Freehold titles are common in rural areas and privately owned land.
- Leasehold Title Deed (Time-Limited Ownership)
A Leasehold Title Deed gives you ownership of land for a fixed period, usually 33, 50, or 99 years, after which it must be renewed or reverted to the government or lessor.
Key Features:
- Government remains the ultimate owner
- The leaseholder pays annual land rent to the government
- Lease terms are renewable upon expiry
- Common in urban areas and commercial zones
Ideal for:
- Commercial developments
- High-rise buildings
- Government-allocated land (e.g., industrial parks, Nairobi CBD)
Tip: Always check the lease expiry date and whether it has been renewed before buying leasehold property.
- Certificate of Lease (Issued Under Land Registration Act)
A Certificate of Lease is issued for leasehold land registered under the Land Registration Act (LRA) of 2012. It’s similar to a leasehold title but usually refers to smaller properties, such as:
- Flats or apartments in a block
- Portions of subdivided land
- Commercial units within estates or malls
Key Features:
- Registered under LRA
- Title is lease-based (e.g., for 99 years)
- Common in apartments and commercial properties
Ideal for:
- Apartment owners
- Office spaces and shops
- Developers in urban estates
- Final Thoughts: Know Your Title Before You Buy
Each type of land title deed in Kenya comes with different rights, responsibilities, and conditions. Whether you’re buying a freehold farm, a leasehold plot in Nairobi, or a flat with a certificate of lease, make sure to:
- Conduct a land search at the Ministry of Lands
- Verify the title with ArdhiSasa (if in Nairobi)
- Consult a licensed conveyancing lawyer
- Understand any lease terms, land rent, or renewal obligations
At Shelta Investments Limited, We ensure timely delivery of title deeds to ensure our clients have peace to start developing their projects.Contact us today on 0700 932 263 and enjoy a seamless process.
