Apply for an official land search or check encumbrances
From: Government of Kenya (public information)
Published 3 June 2026 · Last updated 3 June 2026
Find out how to apply for an official land search certificate, track transaction histories, or check for legal encumbrances and caveats in Kenya. This page covers costs, requirements, and validation steps on the Ardhisasa platform.
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No direct application link is listed yet. Try eCitizen or contact government.
Quick facts
- Processing time
- 1 to 3 working days (Instant if the parcel has already completed its mandatory digital conversion; takes longer if historical registry books require physical retrieval)
- Base cost
- Ksh 550 flat fee
- How to apply
- Online (Digital submission)
Fees and times can change. Confirm on the official site before you pay.
Before you start
- The target property parcel must be fully registered and updated under the Ministry of Lands digital mapping system. Older parcels that haven't undergone "Digital Conversion" will prompt you to submit a conversion tracking request first.
- The search applicant must have a fully verified personal or corporate Ardhisasa profile cleanly linked to their eCitizen identity matrix.
Documents you need
- The exact legal registration title number or parcel number (e.g., Nairobi/Block 123/456 or LR No. 12345/6).
- A scanned clear color copy of the current physical Title Deed or Certificate of Lease (optional but highly recommended to verify input numbers).
Fees and charges
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Official Ministry of Lands Parcel Search Surcharge | Ksh 500 |
| eCitizen Portal Convenience Surcharge | Ksh 50 |
Questions
What is the structural difference between an Official Land Search and an Encumbrance Search?
An official land search certificate automatically covers both ownership details and active encumbrances in a single overview sheet. It lists the current owner's full details, plot size, lease tenure, plus any active restrictions like bank mortgages, family cautions, or court-issued freeze injunctions.
Can I check the complete historical chain of a property's ownership on Ardhisasa?
Yes. While a basic search shows only the current owner, you can utilize the "Historical Search" dashboard tool on the platform. This option commands the land registry to track past file roots and generate a detailed report showing everyone who has held title to that specific plot since its initial allotment.