With the current tough job market affecting many Kenyans, some people have turned to crime, especially by tricking innocent citizens through various scams, including selling fake land.
Unfortunately, many victims only realize they have been scammed when they try to present their title deeds for verification, and the documents turn out to be fake.
Because of this, it is very important for Kenyans to learn how to check and verify their title deeds properly. The Ministry of Lands estimates that more than 10 percent of title deeds currently in circulation could be fraudulent, which is a very serious concern.
Besides fake title deeds, there are other common land scams, such as double selling the same plot to different buyers, ghost plots that don’t exist, fake companies selling land, and people selling land that does not belong to them.
Here are some useful steps Kenyans can take to protect themselves from falling victim to these land scams:
1. Conduct a Land Search to Verify Title Deed
Before buying land, always do a land search to confirm that the land exists and that the title deed is genuine. This can be done either in person at the local land registry or online through the government portal, Ardhisasa.go.ke.
If you visit the Ministry of Lands’ local registry where the land is located, you will need to fill out a land search application form. Along with the form, submit a copy of the title deed and your national ID.
After paying the required fee, you will wait about two to three working days for the results.
Alternatively, using the Ardhisasa website, you register as a user with your ID and phone number. You then enter the parcel number or title deed details of the land in question.
You pay through mobile money, and after that, you can view and download the search results online.
This verification process helps you confirm the legitimacy of the title deed and usually costs between Ksh500 and Ksh1,000, depending on the county.
2. Verify the Land Seller’s Identity
Always make sure to check the identity of the person selling the land. Ask to see official identification documents such as a national ID card or passport, and check that the name matches the one on the title deed.
Also, request their Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN Certificate, which is important for taxation and official transaction records.
If the person selling the land is acting on behalf of the actual landowner, ask for a power of attorney document.
This legal paper shows they have permission to act for the owner in selling the land.
In cases where a company is selling the land, request the company’s certificate of incorporation, the CR12 form that lists current directors, the company PIN, and the IDs of the directors involved.
Taking these steps seriously will greatly reduce your chances of being cheated when buying land. Always remember that being cautious and verifying all documents and identities before making payments is the best way to protect yourself from land scams.
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