FAQ

In Kenyan law, a sectional title deed refers to a legal document that gives ownership rights to a specific unit or section within a building or development — for example, an apartment in a block of flats or an office in a complex. Key points under Kenyan law (as per the Sectional Properties Act, 2020): 1. Individual Ownership You, as the owner, get a title deed for your unit (e.g., Apartment A-203) which is registered separately at the land registry. This means you can sell, lease, or mortgage your unit independently. 2. Shared Ownership of Common Areas Along with the title for your unit, you also get a proportional share of the common areas — such as the staircase, lifts, parking, and playground — through a body corporate (think of it like a residents’ association with legal standing). 3. Body Corporate (Management Company) All owners automatically become members of this body corporate, which manages the common areas, collects service charges, and makes decisions affecting the property. 4. Conversion of Long-Term Leases to Sectional Titles Previously, developers would issue long-term leases (e.g., 99 years) for units. Under the new law, such leases are to be converted to sectional title deeds, offering owners stronger and more direct ownership rights. Benefits of Sectional Titles: You own your unit fully — not just a lease. You can easily sell, rent, or transfer ownership. Better governance and legal protection through the body corporate. If you’re buying or already own an apartment in Kenya, it’s worth confirming whether your title is under the new Sectional Properties Act.