Move-in costs in Nairobi: what to budget beyond the rent
Rent is only the start. The money you need before you get the keys, and the questions to ask at the viewing.
By Meridian Estates. Updated
Many people find a house they can afford each month, then get stuck on the money needed to move in.
Plan for all of it before you start viewing.
Start with the monthly asking rent, then add the one-off charges below. Ask for a written breakdown so you do not count the same charge twice.
Step 1
Know the money you pay before you move in
- The first month of rent
- A rent deposit. Ask how many months, and get it in writing.
- A water deposit, if water is billed separately
- Electricity tokens for the first days
- Service charge, if the building has one
Step 2
Work out your move-in total
Add the first rent payment, the agreed deposit, any separate service or utility deposits, and your moving costs.
Keep refundable deposits separate from costs you will not get back. Do not assume every landlord asks for the same deposit.
Step 3
Budget for the move itself
- A truck or pickup, and people to help carry
- Curtains, a gas cylinder and basic kitchen items
- Internet installation, if you need home Wi-Fi
Step 4
Ask these questions at the viewing
- What is the total I must pay before I get the keys?
- Is the deposit refundable, and what can be taken from it?
- Is garbage collection included or extra?
- How much notice do I give before moving out?
Step 5
Separate monthly costs from one-off costs
Rent, water, power, internet and some service charges keep coming after move-in day.
Ask which bills are included in rent, how each is measured, and when each is due. For a furnished home, ask what items are included and how damage is recorded.
Keep it safe
Pay only after you have seen the house in person and have a written agreement. Use a payment you can trace, like M-Pesa to a named business or a bank account, and keep every receipt.