Renewing Your Lease in Kenya: A Practical Guide for Tenants and Landlords in 2026

By Makao Match Team

When the calendar flips to the last few months of your lease, both tenants and landlords feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Will the rent stay the same? Can you keep the same terms? How much notice is enough? This guide walks you through the whole renewal process, step by step, so you can avoid surprises and keep the relationship smooth.

Start the Conversation Early

Kenyan law does not set a strict notice period for lease renewal, but the common practice is to give at least 30 days notice before the current agreement ends. Sending a friendly text or email at the start of the month gives both parties time to think and plan.

Here are three simple actions to kick‑off the renewal talk:

1. Check your current lease for any renewal clause. Some contracts automatically extend for another year unless either side gives notice.
2. Make a note of any issues you want fixed, a leaking tap, a cracked floor, or a security gate that needs repair.
3. Gather market data. Look at recent listings on Makao Match for similar units in your area to see the going rate.

Know the Legal Limits on Rent Increases

In Kenya, there is no statutory cap on how much a landlord can raise the rent, but the increase must be reasonable and reflect market conditions. As a rule of thumb, a rise of 5 to 10 percent is generally accepted in Nairobi's mid‑range estates, while lower‑cost areas may see only a 3 to 5 percent bump.

For example, if you are paying KES 25,000 per month, a 7 percent increase would be KES 1,750, making the new rent KES 26,750. Present this figure alongside comparable listings to show you have done your homework.

Negotiating Terms Beyond Rent

Renewal is not just about money. Tenants often want improvements, and landlords may look for longer commitments. Consider these negotiation points:

• Maintenance upgrades: Ask for a fresh coat of paint or a new lock as part of the renewal.
• Utility responsibilities: Clarify who pays for water, electricity, and internet after the renewal.
• Lease length: A two‑year extension can give you stability; a shorter term may be better if you anticipate moving.
• Early termination clause: Agree on a reasonable fee if either party needs to end the lease early.

Both sides should write down any new agreements. A short addendum attached to the original lease keeps everything transparent.

Document the Renewal Properly

Kenyan tenancy law requires a written agreement for any lease longer than twelve months. Even if you are simply extending the same terms, get a signed document that includes:

• Names of landlord and tenant.
• Property address.
• New rent amount and payment schedule.
• Start and end dates of the renewed term.
• Any additional clauses you negotiated.

Both parties should keep a copy. Digital signatures are acceptable, but make sure the PDF is stored safely, a cloud folder or the Makao Match dashboard works well.

Plan for the Year Ahead

Renewal is a good moment to set up a simple payment calendar. Mark the rent due date, usually the first of the month, and set a reminder a few days before. If you prefer to pay via M‑Pesa, arrange a recurring token purchase to avoid missed payments.

Also, schedule a mid‑year inspection. It helps catch small repairs before they become costly and shows the landlord that you care for the property.

"A smooth lease renewal is built on clear communication, realistic expectations, and written agreements," says a seasoned Nairobi landlord.

By following these steps, you turn a potentially stressful deadline into a straightforward, mutually beneficial process.

Ready to start your next lease term with confidence? Let Makao Match help you find the right property, compare market rates, and keep all your documents in one place.