Professionals & contracts
Choosing the right construction professionals in Kenya
A building project brings together several professionals, each with a defined role. Knowing who does what — and checking that they are qualified — protects your money and your building.
Who does what
| Professional | Main role | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Architect | Building design, layouts, architectural drawings, often design-stage coordination | Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS) |
| Structural / civil engineer | Structural design, calculations and drawings; engineering inspections | Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) |
| Quantity surveyor | BOQs, cost planning, valuations and final accounts | BORAQS |
| Contractor | Builds the works under a contract | National Construction Authority (NCA) |
| Independent supervisor / project manager | Oversight, coordination and reporting on your behalf | Ask for qualifications and professional registration |
Registration requirements and public registers can change, so check current details directly with each body.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Are you registered, and can I see your registration and practising details?
- What similar projects have you done, and can I speak to the owners?
- What exactly is included in your scope and fee — and what isn't?
- Who will actually be on my project day to day?
- Do you have any commercial relationship with the other parties I'm hiring?
Contractors: look beyond the quote
Check the contractor's registration category is appropriate for your project's size, visit a site they are currently working on, and ask how they handle variations and delays. Insist on a written contract.
Independence matters
If your supervisor is also supplying materials or was introduced by your contractor, ask how conflicts of interest are managed. Oversight only works if it is genuinely independent.
We coordinate with architects, engineers and quantity surveyors as part of project delivery, and work independently of contractors when providing site supervision.
This article is general guidance for property owners in Kenya and is not a substitute for professional advice on your specific project. Regulations, requirements and prices change — confirm current details with the relevant authority or professional.
