As of 1st March 2025, the National Construction Authority (NCA) officially rolled out the new Kenya Building Code 2024, replacing the outdated 1968 building regulations that had governed construction for over 50 years. This change redefines the standards for planning, building, and living in Kenya’s built environment.
So, what makes the new code so different? Let’s break down the key changes between the 1968 and 2024 Building Codes and why understanding them is crucial for today’s builders and developers in Kenya.
Regulatory Framework
1968 Building Code:
- Construction rules enforced by Kenya’s local construction bylaws.
- Limited to outdated rules and older materials and technologies.
- The rules were outdated and not flexible.
- Lacked a broader, holistic approach to all stages of construction.
2024 Building Code:
- The National Construction Authority (NCA) is leading the implementation process.
- Uniformly applied to all human settlements across Kenya.
- Performance-based rather than material and construction methods.
- Technical Vetting will be reviewed by a Multi-Agency Committee (includes County Government, NCA, NEMA).
- Flexible to modern construction practices.
- Deployment of mobile materials testing labs.
Why it matters:
- The old code stifled innovation and didn’t account for advancements in building techniques.
- New performance-based approach encourages creativity and efficiency while ensuring consistent standards nationwide
Safety Standards
1968 Building Code:
- Basic structural integrity.
- Minimal disaster preparedness.
- No specific requirements for fire resistance, evacuation routes.
2024 Building Code:
- Enhanced safety standards.
- Multi-hazard resilient designs are now mandatory.
- Fire resistance and evacuation protocols are now a requirement.
- At least two escape routes are required for swift and safe evacuation
Why it matters:
- The new code recognizes Kenya’s vulnerability to various hazards.
- Mandatory fire safety and resilient designs, like stronger structural elements in earthquake-prone zones, significantly reduce risks and ensure safer buildings for occupants.
Sustainability Practices
1968 Building Code:
- No focus on environmental impact.
- Little focus on modern waste management systems, such as efficient waste disposal.
- Did not emphasize energy-efficient designs or materials
2024 Building Code:
- Provides detailed guidelines on Septic systems,Stormwater drainage and Disposal of solid and liquid waste.
- Foundation specifications based on soil structure are included.
- Adequate ventilation for all residential buildings.
- Developers are encouraged to integrate green building materials and sustainable practices.
- Large or sensitive projects must undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment.
Why it matters:
- The new code promotes sustainable practices, from efficient waste management to encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials.
- This contributes to a greener and more resilient built environment. For instance, proper stormwater drainage is crucial in flood-prone areas.
Roles and Responsibilities
1968 Building Code:
- Did not explicitly include new or evolving roles in the construction industry (e.g., Interior Designers, Project Managers, Construction Managers, and Landscape Architects).
- Only certified professionals (architects, engineers, surveyors) could oversee design and construction work.
2024 Building Code:
- New code does not explicitly include professionals who can oversee design and construction work. That is Construction Project Managers, Construction Managers, Interior Designers, or Landscape Architects.
- The code will be revised every five years.
Why it matters:
- The new code’s exclusion of roles like project managers and interior designers in oversight has sparked industry concern.
- Many graduates in these fields feel their skills aren’t fully recognized. This raises questions about their career paths in the Kenyan Build Industry.
- It acknowledges the potential for future inclusion with the five-year revision clause.
Innovation and Compliance
1968 Building Code:
- No provisions for:internet or fiber optic networks.
- No recognition of Smart building systems.
- IoT/Automation Readiness not applicable at the time.
2024 Building Code:
- Mandates provision for fiber optic networks, data cabling, and digital readiness.
- Promotes use of energy-efficient systems, including solar.
- Allows for safe and regulated installation of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) systems within buildings.
Why it matters:
- The new code acknowledges the importance of modern infrastructure and promotes energy-saving technologies.
- Mandating fiber optic networks ensures buildings are future-proof, while encouraging solar energy reduces reliance on the grid and lowers energy costs.
Penalties for Non-Compliance.
1968 Building Code:
- Minimal penalties for non-compliance (fines as low as Kshs. 2,000 or 6 months imprisonment)
2024 Building Code:
- Hefty penalties for violations (starting at Kshs. 2 million or 6 months imprisonment)
Why it matters:
- This code aims to deter negligence and ensure that higher standards are consistently met, safeguarding public safety and the integrity of the built environment.
Maintenance and Inspection.
1968 Building Code:
- There were no follow-up checks mandated by law after occupation
2024 Building Code:
- Mandatory periodic inspections by certified professionals.
- Professionals are liable for defects and non-compliance during and after construction.
- Maintenance requirements that cover structural, mechanical, and safety systems.
- Enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance, including fines or penalties.
- Developers must plan for facility management and repairs, especially in shared spaces (e.g., apartments or commercial buildings).
Why it matters:
- The new regulations emphasize the ongoing responsibility of regular inspections by qualified professionals and adherence to maintenance.
- Schedules ensure buildings remain safe and functional throughout their lifespan.
- Defects Liability Period is typically 6–12 months after construction where the developer/contractor must fix defects.
Disaster Risk Management
1968 Building Code:
- No comprehensive planning on Fire emergencies, Earthquakes and Floods.
2024 Building Code:
- Multi-hazard design requirements based on location-specific risks.
- Detailed fire safety and evacuation plans.
- Site safety guidelines during construction, including for high-risk areas.
- Mandatory drainage systems in waterlogged areas.
Why it matters:
- The new code mandates location-specific design considerations and comprehensive safety protocols to mitigate the impact of fires, earthquakes, and floods.
General Accessibility Provisions
1968 Building Code:
- Limited and vague references to accessibility.
- Did not include detailed requirements in buildings to persons with disabilities.
- Relied on the personal judgment of architects or property developers.
2024 Building Code:
- Introduces clear, enforceable requirements to ensure universal access in all types of buildings.
- Buildings must now accommodate persons with disabilities.
Why it matters:
- The new code prioritizes inclusivity by establishing clear and mandatory accessibility standards.
- This ensures that buildings are usable by everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, moving beyond mere suggestions to concrete requirements.
The Kenya Building Code 2024 represents a big step towards safer, greener, and more accessible buildings. Everyone in construction needs to think and work differently now. Always ensure approvals are in place and construction meets National Building Code 2022, county regulations, and environmental guidelines to avoid demolition, legal action, or loss of investment.
Protect your investment and build with confidence. Ensure your projects fully adhere to the Kenya Building Code 2024, county rules, and environmental standards.