September 16, 2024
How to Do Land Search Online in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Have you ever been on the brink of purchasing a piece of land, only to doubt its legitimacy? Imagine sealing the deal on a piece of property, only to discover later that it was never legally owned by your seller. Such scenarios can be nightmarish, both financially and emotionally. That's why conducting a land search in Kenya is crucial. This guide offers a detailed walkthrough on how to conduct an online land search in Kenya, helping you to verify land ownership and avoid fraud.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Conduct a Land Search in Kenya?
- Steps to Conduct an Online Land Search
- Requirements for Online Land Search
- Using the Ardhisasa Platform
- Using the eCitizen Portal
Why Conduct a Land Search in Kenya?
Conducting a land search in Kenya is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it verifies the ownership details of the property, ensuring you are dealing with the rightful owner. This process helps trace the history of ownership, revealing any disputes or encumbrances that may affect your purchase.
Furthermore, a land search provides specific geographical information about the land, such as its size and location, helping buyers gauge its worth. With the rising cases of property fraud, an online land search can be your first line of defense against conmen and fake documents. For more insights on this topic, you can refer to Top 10 Best Lawyers in Kenya.
Steps to Conduct an Online Land Search
Requirements for Online Land Search
Before you start your online land search, ensure you have the following:
- Secure internet connection
- Your ID Number
- Your ID Serial Number
- Mother’s Maiden Name
- First Name
- Surname
- Sex
- Nationality
- Phone Number
- Land Parcel Number (should be in the format NAIROBI/BLOCKxx/xxx)
Using the Ardhisasa Platform
The Ardhisasa platform, launched by the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, is designed to streamline land transactions in Kenya. Here's how you can conduct a land search using Ardhisasa:
- Visit the Ardhisasa Platform: Go to ardhisasa.lands.go.ke.
- Login/Register: If you already have an account, log in. If not, register for a new one.
- Navigate to Land Registration Services: Click on “Land Registration Services,” then click “Search.”
- Initiate a New Search Application: Click on the “New Application” button.
- Enter Land Parcel Number: Input the Land Parcel Number from your title deed or land certificate.
- Purpose and Scope of Search: Indicate the purpose of your search and the scope.
- Submit Application: Review the details and submit your application.
- Receive and Print Results: The land search results will display the ownership history, current owner, and any claims on the land.
Using the eCitizen Portal
The eCitizen portal is another reliable platform for conducting land searches. Follow these steps:
- Visit eCitizen Portal: Go to ecitizen.go.ke.
- Login/Register: Log in with your existing account, or create a new one.
- Access Ministry of Lands Services: Navigate to the “Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning” section.
- Initiate Land Search: Select the land search option and enter the title deed number.
- Make Payment: Pay the land search fee of Ksh. 500 via Mpesa, credit, or debit card.
- Receive Results: The search results will be available for download within 24 hours.
Manual vs. Online Land Search: Pros and Cons
Manual Land Search
Pros:
- Direct interaction with land registry officials
- Immediate clarification of any discrepancies
Cons:
- Time-consuming and often involves long queues
- Higher risk of encountering conmen and brokers
Online Land Search
Pros:
- Convenient and can be done from anywhere
- Faster processing time
- Reduced risk of fraud
Cons:
- Requires a reliable internet connection
- Limited to counties with digitized records
For a more detailed comparison, visit eRegulations Kenya.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Issues
- Incorrect Parcel Numbers: Always double-check the parcel number before submission.
- Unreliable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions.
- Incomplete Information: Make sure all required fields are accurately filled.
How to Avoid
- Double-Check Entries: Verify all information before submitting your application.
- Stable Internet: Use a reliable internet connection to avoid disruptions.
- Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the guidelines provided on the Ardhisasa and eCitizen portals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does it cost for an online land search in Kenya? The cost is Ksh. 500 per search on the eCitizen portal.
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How long does it take to get the land search results? Results are generally available within 24 hours on both Ardhisasa and eCitizen platforms.
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Can I conduct a land search on behalf of someone else? Yes, but the proprietor needs to verify your search request on the Ardhisasa platform.
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What information is provided in the land search results? Ownership history, current owner, land size, and any claims on the land.
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Is it safe to rely solely on online land search results? While online searches are reliable, it is advisable to consult a conveyancing lawyer for comprehensive verification.
Conclusion
Conducting a land search in Kenya is a crucial step in the property buying process. Whether you choose the Ardhisasa platform or the eCitizen portal, the key is to ensure all information is accurate and complete. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safeguard yourself against fraud and make informed decisions about your property investments. For further assistance, you can visit Mwakili, a comprehensive legal resource for justice seekers and small business owners.
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Tags: "land-search", "kenya", "legal-advice", "property", "real-estate"