How to Lease Office / Retail Space in Nairobi

Leasing commercial property in Nairobi whether it’s an office, shop, or showroom can be one of the most strategic moves for any business. Nairobi’s fast-growing economy, vibrant startup scene, and expanding retail market make it one of Africa’s best cities for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
But before signing that lease, it’s essential to understand how the process works and what to look out for.

🔍 1. Identify the Right Location

The first step in leasing office or retail space in Nairobi is choosing the right location for your business.
Key commercial zones include:

• Westlands – Ideal for corporates, tech firms, and co-working spaces.
• Kilimani & Upper Hill – Perfect for law firms, NGOs, and medical offices.
• Karen & Lavington – Offer premium retail and lifestyle spaces.
• CBD – Still attractive for banks, government offices, and walk-in customer businesses.
• Satellite Towns such as Ruiru, Syokimau, and Athi River are emerging hubs offering affordable options for retail and logistics.

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🧾 2. Understand Your Space Requirements Before approaching landlords or agents, define:

• Square footage needed for your operations.
• Foot traffic if you’re leasing retail space.
• Parking, storage, and utilities requirements.
• Whether you prefer shell & core, semi-fitted, or fully-fitted office space.

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💬 3. Work With a Licensed Real Estate Agent

Partnering with an experienced property agent in Nairobi simplifies the entire process.
An agent can:

• Provide listings that fit your business needs.
• Help negotiate lease terms and rental rates.
• Ensure compliance with zoning and tenancy laws

Choose agents who understand Nairobi’s market dynamics and can advise on trending commercial hubs.

4. Review Lease Terms Carefully

Commercial leases in Nairobi typically range from 3 to 6 years, but shorter terms are possible for smaller spaces.
Key clauses to review include:

• Rent escalation – Usually 5–10% per year.
• Service charge – Covers security, cleaning, garbage collection, and maintenance.
• Repair and maintenance obligations.
• Subletting and termination clauses.

Always request a draft lease and have it reviewed by a real estate lawyer before signing.

5. Negotiate for Flexibility

Landlords in Nairobi are often open to negotiation, especially in new developments.
You can request:

• Rent-free fit-out periods to set up your space.
• Flexible lease renewals.
• Shared marketing or signage opportunities in retail developments.

Smart negotiation can save your business thousands over the lease period.

6. Plan for Fit-Out and Compliance

Once the lease is signed:

• Obtain fit-out approvals from the landlord and the Nairobi County Government.
• Adhere to fire, health, and safety standards.
• Work with qualified contractors to ensure compliance with the Building Code of Kenya.

7. Move In and Manage Your Lease

After fit-out and inspection, you can officially occupy the space.
Keep records of:

• Rent payments and receipts.
• Service charge statements.
• Inspection reports and correspondence.

Managing your lease professionally helps maintain a good relationship with your landlord and ensures a smooth renewal process.

Bonus Tip: Consider Co-Working and Serviced Offices

If you’re a startup or small business, consider flexible options such as co-working spaces in Westlands, Kilimani or Riverside. They offer:

• Short-term leases.
• Fully furnished offices.
• Shared amenities like meeting rooms, internet, and reception services.

They’re an ideal entry point before committing to long-term leases.

Final Thoughts

Leasing commercial property in Nairobi can open up exciting opportunities for business growth but it requires due diligence. Take time to assess location, lease terms, and hidden costs before signing.
Whether you’re looking for a retail shop in Karen, an office in Upper Hill, or a warehouse in Ruiru, working with the right agent makes all the difference.

📞 Call: +254 700 563 667
📧 Email: sarabirealtygroup@gmail.com
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