From Roof Repairs to Smart Upgrades—What You Need to Know Before You Build, Fix, or Refresh

In Kenya, home improvement is more than maintenance—it’s a statement of pride, comfort, and verified dignity. Whether you’re upgrading a short-stay in Syokimau, renovating a family home in Kisumu, or managing estate-wide repairs in Machakos, trusted fundis and specialists ensure your space reflects your values. This guide breaks down real costs, service types, regional trends, and how to hire verified pros through Balozy.

đź’° National Snapshot: Home Improvement Costs in Kenya (2025)

Service Type Cost Range (KES) Notes
Painting (interior/exterior) 150–400/sqm Includes labor and basic paint
Plumbing Repairs 1,000–10,000+ Leaks, installations, replacements
Electrical Upgrades 2,000–50,000+ Sockets, wiring, smart systems
Roofing Repairs 10,000–100,000+ Depends on size and material
Tiling & Flooring 500–2,500/sqm Ceramic, vinyl, terrazzo
Ceiling Installation 800–2,000/sqm Gypsum, PVC, acoustic
Kitchen Renovation 30,000–300,000+ Cabinets, countertops, plumbing
Bathroom Upgrade 20,000–150,000+ Fixtures, tiling, waterproofing
Door & Window Replacement 5,000–50,000+ Wood, aluminum, steel
Smart Home Integration 20,000–100,000+ Lighting, sensors, automation
Compound Paving 800–2,000/sqm Cabro, concrete, stone
Water Tank Installation 15,000–80,000 Includes base, plumbing, fittings
Fence & Gate Setup 30,000–200,000+ Masonry, metal, electric options

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🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s renovation capital—home to smart upgrades, estate-wide repairs, and branded short-stay refreshes.

  • Kitchen Renovation (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau):
    • KSh 50,000–300,000
    • Includes cabinets, plumbing, countertops
  • Smart Home Integration:
    • KSh 30,000–100,000+
    • Includes lighting, sensors, remote access
  • Painting (interior/exterior):
    • KSh 200–400/sqm
    • Includes labor, primer, and finish

Balozy Tip: Nairobi fundis often offer WhatsApp estimates—ask for before/after photos and material breakdowns.

2. Machakos

Affordable and expressive—Machakos fundis serve estates, schools, and short-stay properties.

  • Roofing Repairs (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
    • KSh 20,000–80,000
    • Includes iron sheets, waterproofing, labor
  • Bathroom Upgrade:
    • KSh 30,000–100,000
    • Includes tiling, fixtures, waterproofing
  • Compound Paving:
    • KSh 800–1,800/sqm
    • Includes cabro, concrete, labor

Balozy Tip: Many Machakos fundis offer phased upgrades—perfect for budget-conscious hosts or estate managers.

3. Mombasa

Coastal improvements blend salt-resistant materials, ventilation, and Swahili elegance.

  • Ceiling Installation (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
    • KSh 1,000–2,000/sqm
    • Includes gypsum, PVC, acoustic panels
  • Water Tank Setup:
    • KSh 20,000–60,000
    • Includes base, plumbing, fittings
  • Fence & Gate Setup:
    • KSh 40,000–150,000
    • Includes masonry, metal, and coastal finishes

Balozy Tip: Ask for coastal-experienced fundis—humidity affects paint, wood, and plumbing choices.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side upgrades focus on natural light, ventilation, and guest-ready comfort.

  • Bathroom Upgrade (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
    • KSh 25,000–80,000
    • Includes fixtures, tiling, waterproofing
  • Painting & Tiling:
    • KSh 200–500/sqm
    • Includes labor, primer, and finish
  • Door & Window Replacement:
    • KSh 10,000–40,000
    • Includes wood, aluminum, steel

Balozy Tip: Ask for lake-side ventilation strategies—perfect for hot seasons and guest comfort.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious homes and farm-friendly improvement setups.

  • Water Tank Installation (e.g., Elgon View):
    • KSh 15,000–50,000
    • Includes base, plumbing, fittings
  • Fence & Gate Setup:
    • KSh 30,000–120,000
    • Includes masonry, metal, and rural finishes
  • Electrical Upgrades:
    • KSh 5,000–30,000
    • Includes sockets, wiring, lighting

Balozy Tip: Eldoret fundis often offer generator-friendly setups—ask for rural packages and travel rates.

🧱 What’s Included in Home Improvement Services?

Service Element Included? Notes
Site Visit & Diagnosis âś… Measurements, material list, scope
Labor & Materials âś… Confirm if materials are included
Cleanup & Disposal ✅/❌ Optional or bundled
Warranty & Support ✅/❌ 3–12 months depending on job
Safety & PPE âś… Verified fundis only
Multi-Phase Planning ✅/❌ Available for large projects
Smart Integration ✅/❌ Optional for lighting, sensors
WhatsApp Estimates âś… Available for verified pros
Before/After Photos âś… Useful for short-stay hosts
Travel Fee ✅/❌ Based on location

Balozy Tip: Always confirm scope, materials, warranty, and payment method before booking.

🧠 What Affects Home Improvement Costs?

âś… Scope of Work

  • Full renovations cost more than repairs
  • Smart upgrades and branded finishes add complexity

âś… Location

  • Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher
  • Transport to rural areas adds KSh 500–2,000

âś… Material Quality

  • Premium tiles, paint, and fixtures raise costs
  • Local brands offer savings but may vary in durability

âś… Fundi Experience

  • Verified fundis charge more for consistency and safety
  • New fundis may offer lower rates for portfolio building

đź’ˇ Smart Ways to Save on Home Improvement

  1. Use Verified Balozy Fundis: Compare ratings, photos, and material breakdowns
  2. Bundle Services: Combine painting, plumbing, and tiling for discounts
  3. Choose Local Talent: Hiring within your town reduces transport fees
  4. Phase Your Project: Spread costs over 2–6 months
  5. Ask for WhatsApp Estimates: Avoid surprises with clear scope and pricing

📲 How to Hire a Home Improvement Pro Using the Balozy App

Step-by-Step:

  1. Download the Balozy App
  2. Tap “Find a Service”
    • Select “Home Improvement” or search keywords like “plumber,” “painter,” “tiling,” or “roof repair.”
  3. Filter by Location & Specialty
    • Choose your area and service type.
  4. Browse Verified Profiles
    • View ratings, photos, WhatsApp contacts, and pricing.
  5. Chat or Call Directly
    • Confirm scope, materials, and payment method.
  6. Book & Pay Securely
    • Choose your time slot and confirm.
  7. Leave a Review
    • Help others find trusted fundis.