From Leak Repairs to Full Installations—What You Need to Know

Plumbing is the backbone of every home, rental, and business. Whether you’re fixing a leaking tap in Syokimau, installing a water tank in Machakos, or renovating a bathroom in Kisumu, verified plumbing work ensures comfort, hygiene, and long-term value. This guide breaks down the real costs of plumbing services in Kenya, the types of work available, and how to hire trusted professionals through Balozy.

💰 National Snapshot: Plumbing Costs in Kenya

Service Type Cost Range (KES) Notes
Leak Detection & Repair 1,500–5,000 Depends on pipe access and severity
Toilet Installation 3,000–8,000 Includes labor; excludes toilet cost
Shower Installation 4,000–10,000 Electric or manual
Water Heater Installation 6,000–15,000 Instant or tank-based
Drain Unclogging 2,000–6,000 Kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor
Pipe Installation (per meter) 500–1,200 Depends on pipe type and terrain
Water Tank Setup (1,000L–5,000L) 8,000–25,000 Includes base, piping, and fittings
Full Bathroom Plumbing 25,000–80,000 New builds or renovations
Emergency Call-Out 1,500–3,000 extra Nights, weekends, or urgent jobs

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🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s capital has the widest range of plumbing services—from luxury installations to emergency repairs.

  • Leak Repairs (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau):
    • KSh 2,000–5,000 depending on wall access and pipe type
  • Water Heater Installation:
    • KSh 8,000–15,000 for instant or tank-based systems
  • Bathroom Renovation Plumbing:
    • KSh 30,000–80,000 including shower, toilet, sink, and drainage

Balozy Tip: Nairobi plumbers often offer bundled packages—ask for full bathroom or kitchen quotes to save 10–20%.

2. Machakos

Affordable and responsive, Machakos plumbers are ideal for estates, schools, and short-stay properties.

  • Toilet & Sink Installation (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
    • KSh 3,000–6,000 per fixture
  • Water Tank Setup (1,000L–3,000L):
    • KSh 10,000–20,000 including base and piping
  • Drain Unclogging:
    • KSh 2,000–4,000 for kitchens and bathrooms

Balozy Tip: Many Machakos plumbers offer same-day service—perfect for Airbnb turnovers or urgent repairs.

3. Mombasa

Coastal plumbing requires corrosion-resistant materials and humidity-aware installation.

  • Pipe Installation (PVC or PPR):
    • KSh 600–1,200 per meter depending on material
  • Shower & Tap Installation:
    • KSh 4,000–8,000 per fixture
  • Saltwater Tank Setup:
    • KSh 15,000–25,000 with filtration and corrosion protection

Balozy Tip: Choose plumbers with coastal experience—humidity and salt air affect pipe longevity and fittings.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side homes face unique plumbing needs—especially for drainage, water pressure, and tank systems.

  • Water Tank Installation (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
    • KSh 10,000–20,000 including base and overflow piping
  • Toilet & Shower Setup:
    • KSh 5,000–10,000 per fixture
  • Drainage & Septic Work:
    • KSh 15,000–40,000 depending on terrain and access

Balozy Tip: Ask for plumbers who understand lake-side water pressure and seasonal flooding risks.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious homes and farm setups, Eldoret plumbing often includes outdoor and irrigation systems.

  • Outdoor Tap & Irrigation Setup:
    • KSh 3,000–8,000 per point
  • Full Bathroom Plumbing:
    • KSh 25,000–60,000 including fixtures and drainage
  • Water Heater Installation:
    • KSh 6,000–12,000 for instant systems

Balozy Tip: Eldoret plumbers often offer farm packages—ask for bulk pricing on irrigation or tank setups.

🧠 What’s Included in Plumbing Services?

Service Element Included? Notes
Site Inspection ✅ Often free or bundled
Labor & Tools ✅ Confirm if specialized tools are needed
Materials (pipes, taps) ❌ Usually billed separately
Cleanup ✅ Post-installation debris removal
Warranty ❌ Some offer 30–90 day guarantees
Emergency Response ✅ May include surcharge

Balozy Tip: Always ask for a written quote with labor, materials, and timeline.

🔧 Types of Plumbing Work in Kenya

✅ Leak Detection & Repair

  • Wall or floor leaks
  • Pipe joint sealing
  • Pressure testing

✅ Fixture Installation

  • Toilets, sinks, showers, taps
  • Includes mounting, sealing, and connection

✅ Drainage & Unclogging

  • Kitchen, bathroom, outdoor drains
  • Manual or machine-assisted

✅ Water Heater Setup

  • Instant or tank-based
  • Electrical and plumbing integration

✅ Pipe Installation

  • PVC, PPR, copper
  • New builds or repiping

✅ Tank & Pump Systems

  • Water storage, booster pumps
  • Overflow and filtration setup

💡 Smart Ways to Save on Plumbing Costs

  1. Bundle Services: Combine toilet, sink, and shower installation for discounts
  2. Use Verified Balozy Providers: Compare ratings, prices, and warranties
  3. Request Local Materials: Kenyan-made pipes and fittings are often cheaper and durable
  4. Book Off-Peak: Weekday bookings may be 10–15% cheaper
  5. Ask for Preventive Maintenance: Annual checks reduce emergency costs

🧑‍💼 How to Hire a Plumber on Balozy

  • ✅ Browse verified profiles by location and service type
  • ✅ Filter by urgency, rating, and budget
  • ✅ Chat directly via WhatsApp or in-app messaging
  • ✅ Confirm materials, labor, and payment method
  • ✅ Leave a review to help others find trusted plumbers

📍 Regional Price Summary

City Leak Repair Toilet Install Water Heater Tank Setup
Nairobi 2K–5K 3K–8K 8K–15K 10K–25K
Machakos 1.5K–4K 3K–6K 6K–12K 10K–20K
Mombasa 2K–5K 4K–8K 8K–15K 15K–25K
Kisumu 2K–5K 5K–10K 6K–12K 10K–20K
Eldoret 2K–5K 4K–8K 6K–12K 10K–20K

🏁 Final Thoughts