Land Search on Ardhisasa: Navigating the Kenyan Land Registry

In the bustling Kenyan real estate market, having access to reliable and up-to-date land information is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Ardhisasa, a digital platform developed by the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, has revolutionized the way land transactions are conducted in the country. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of using Ardhisasa to conduct land searches in Kenya, providing you with valuable insights and step-by-step instructions.

Understanding Ardhisasa

Ardhisasa is an online portal that offers a one-stop shop for all land-related services in Kenya. It empowers individuals and businesses to access land records, conduct searches, and initiate various land transactions with ease. The platform is designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the land sector.

Why Conduct a Land Search Using Ardhisasa?

Conducting a land search using Ardhisasa is essential for several reasons:

• Verifying Ownership: It helps confirm the rightful owner of a property, protecting you from potential fraudulent transactions.
• Identifying Encumbrances: Land searches can reveal any existing liens, mortgages, or easements that may affect the property’s value or use.
• Assessing Property Boundaries: Ardhisasa provides accurate information on property boundaries, preventing disputes and ensuring that you’re purchasing the correct land.
• Due Diligence: Before investing in a property, conducting a thorough land search is a crucial step in your due diligence process.

1. Access the Ardhisasa Portal: Visit the official Ardhisasa website and create an account if you haven’t already done so.
2. Choose the Search Type: Select the appropriate search type based on your needs. Common options include:
   • Parcel Number Search: Enter the parcel number to retrieve detailed information about a specific property.
   • Name Search: Search for land records based on the owner’s name.
   • Location Search: Use geographical coordinates or landmarks to locate properties.
3. Provide Required Details: Enter the necessary information, such as parcel number, owner’s name, or location details, as prompted.
4. Submit the Search Request: Once you’ve entered the required details, submit your search request.
5. Review Search Results: Ardhisasa will display the search results, providing information about the property’s ownership, size, location, and any existing encumbrances.
6. Obtain a Search Certificate: If you need a formal document confirming the search results, you can request a search certificate from Ardhisasa.

Additional Tips for Using Ardhisasa

• Ensure Accurate Information: Double-check the details you enter to avoid errors that could delay your search.
• Utilize Available Resources: Ardhisasa offers helpful resources, such as FAQs and user guides, to assist you in navigating the platform.
• Contact Customer Support: If you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ardhisasa’s customer support team for assistance.

Additional Questions About Ardhisasa

1. Why did the government set up Ardhisasa?

The Kenyan government established Ardhisasa with several key objectives:  

• Enhance Transparency: To increase transparency in land transactions and reduce corruption.
• Improve Efficiency: To streamline land registration processes and reduce the time it takes to obtain land information.  
• Modernize Land Administration: To modernize the land administration system and make it more accessible to the public.  
• Promote Economic Development: To facilitate land-based investments and promote economic growth.

2. How to pay for Ardhisasa services?

Ardhisasa offers various payment options, including:

• Mobile Money: You can use M-Pesa or other mobile money services to make payments.  
• Debit or Credit Cards: Payments can be made using Visa, Mastercard, or other debit or credit cards.
• Bank Transfers: You can transfer funds to the designated Ardhisasa bank account.

The specific payment methods available may vary depending on the service you’re using and the government’s current policies.

3. How do I register land on Ardhisasa?

To register land on Ardhisasa, you’ll typically need to follow these steps:

1. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, such as a copy of your title deed, survey plan, and any other relevant paperwork.
2. Create an Ardhisasa Account: If you haven’t already done so, create an account on the Ardhisasa platform.  
3. Submit Application: Log in to your account and submit an application for land registration.
4. Pay Fees: Pay the required registration fees using one of the available payment methods.
5. Provide Supporting Documents: Upload copies of the required documents as requested.
6. Await Approval: The land registration process may take some time, and you’ll be notified of the outcome.

It’s important to note that the specific procedures and requirements may vary depending on the type of land registration you’re seeking and any applicable regulations. It’s recommended to consult with a legal professional or land registration expert for guidance.

Conclusion

Ardhisasa has transformed the way land transactions are conducted in Kenya, providing a convenient and efficient platform for conducting land searches. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively utilize Ardhisasa to verify property ownership, identify encumbrances, and make informed decisions about real estate investments.