Building Plan Approval Process in Embu County Government.

A Step-By-Step Guide On Obtaining A Construction Permit Comprehensive Guide

We are pleased to provide a comprehensive guide to the Building Plan Approval Process in Embu County Government.

This guide outlines the detailed process of getting a construction permit from the Embu County Government, including the requirements for registration with the National Construction Authority of Kenya (NCA) and the issuance of completion and occupancy certificates.

Our guide provides a step-by-step process to obtain a construction permit in Embu County, Kenya.

We have conducted extensive research on the topic and have included relevant information to ensure that our guide is the best possible quality content that will outrank other websites.

Step 1: Conduct a Site Survey and Drawing Preparation

Before starting any construction project in Embu County, it is essential to conduct a site survey to determine the suitability of the location for the intended construction.

This step involves identifying the type of soil, topography, and natural features that may affect the project’s structural stability.

Additionally, drawing preparation is necessary to provide detailed plans and specifications of the proposed building. The drawings should show the building’s design, dimensions, materials, and construction methods. Professional architects and engineers typically prepare these drawings.

Step 2: Submission of Building Plan Application

After completing the site survey and drawing preparation, the next step is to submit the building plan application to the Embu County Government.

The application should include the site survey report, the building plan drawings, and other relevant documents as required by the local authority.

The application should include the following documents:

• Certified Architectural Drawings (at least 5 copies) – prepared by an architect or a firm registered with the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors.
• Certified Structural Drawings (at least 5 copies) – prepared by a structural engineer or a firm registered with the Engineers Board of Kenya.
• Indemnity Form (signed by architect and/or structural engineer
• Copy of Land Ownership Documents
• Land Rates Clearance Certificate
• Land Search Document – not older than three months
• Survey Map – from Survey of Kenya
• Approval Fee Payment – the amount is based on the design and is payable during submission.

Step 3: Building Plan Review and Assessment

The Embu County Government will review the building plan application to ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. The review process typically takes between 14 and 21 days.

Step 4: Site Inspection

The local authority will then conduct a site inspection to ensure that the proposed construction project meets the local building codes and regulations. This inspection aims to ensure that the project’s design and specifications align with the approved building plan.

Step 5: Approval

After the site inspection, the local authority will approve the building plan and issue the necessary construction permit. The permit will include the approved building plan, the project’s scope, and any other relevant conditions for the construction project.

For commercial projects, NCA project registration is required.

Step 6: Project Registration with the National Construction Authority of Kenya (NCA)

Once the local authority approves the building plan, the next step is to register the project with the NCA.

The registration process involves meeting the NCA registration requirements, which includes online registration with the NCA and obtaining an NCA registration number.

It is essential to display the NCA registration number at the construction site as proof of registration with the NCA.

Project registration with the National Construction Authority (NCA) is a requirement for all contractors undertaking construction projects in Kenya.

The process of registering a project with the NCA is relatively straightforward and involves few steps.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register a project with the NCA in Kenya:

 Register with the NCA

Once you have obtained approved drawing from the county, you can proceed to register your project with the NCA.

To do this, you will need to submit an application form online and provide relevant documents, such as the project drawings, bill of quantities, and a site plan.

Local developers/owners registering a project must ensure that their contractors and sub-contractors are registered by NCA and have a valid practicing license for the current financial year.

The contractor classification/grades set by NCA regulations allow contractors to register in one or more categories according to their experience and qualifications. Once all requirements are met, a Certificate of Registration is issued on registration as a contractor in Kenya.

Developers can register their projects through the NCA project registration portal or visit the nearest NCA regional or liaison office for assistance.

It should also be noted that project registration is currently free of charge.

NCA Project Registration Requirements

The following are the requirements:

• The contractor and sub-contractor must be registered by NCA and must have a valid practicing license for the current financial year.
• The project consultants (for example the engineer (s), architect, and quantity surveyor) must be duly registered with their respective professional regulatory bodies, such as the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS). They must have valid practicing licenses
• Approved architectural and structural drawings.
• Physical planning forms (county approval permits/ letters/PPA2)
• Other statutory and regulatory approvals such as NEMA, EPRA, WRA and KCAA licenses where applicable.
• Bill of quantities summary page duly signed and stamped by the quantity surveyor.
• Copy of developer’s Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN.
• Signed contract/tender form or signed agreement by developer with the contractor.
• Supervision Commitment Letters by consultants and/or agreements/contract by developer with consultants.

How National Construction Authority (NCA) Project Registration Is Done Online Portal

To register a project with the National Construction Authority (NCA) in Kenya, developer can follow these steps:

1. Visit the NCA website at https://nca.go.ke/ and download the Project Registration Form.
2. Fill out the form with the relevant information about your project, including the type of project, location, estimated cost, and project duration.
3. Attach the necessary documents, including architectural and engineering drawings, environmental impact assessment reports, and other relevant certificates and approvals.
4. Pay the prescribed fees (if any) for project registration through the provided payment channels, such as M-PESA, bank deposits, or online payment systems. Note that project registration is currently (2023) free of charge.
5. Submit the completed registration form and supporting documents online or to the nearest NCA regional office.

After submitting your application, NCA officials will review your project and either approve or reject it based on their evaluation of its compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

If your project is approved, you will be issued with a NCA registration certificate, which you will need to present to other relevant authorities to obtain necessary permits and approvals for construction.

In short, after submitting your application, the NCA will review your documents and conduct an inspection of the project site.

If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of approval, which will allow you to proceed with the construction project.

Display Your NCA Project Registration Number

Once your project is registered with the NCA, you will need to display your project registration number at the project site.

This certificate number serves as proof that the project is registered with the NCA and that the contractor is authorized to undertake the construction work.

It is important to ensure that your project is registered with the NCA before starting construction work, as failure to do so can result in fines and other legal consequences.

Step 7: Building Construction

After completing the previous steps, the construction project can commence as planned, following the approved building plan.

Step 8: Inspections of Construction at Various Stages

During the construction process, the local authority may conduct inspections to ensure that the construction work aligns with the approved building plan and local building codes and regulations.

These inspections may occur at various stages of the project, including the foundation, walls, roofing, and finishing stages.

Step 9: Issuance of Completion and Occupancy Certificate

After completing the construction project, the local authority will inspect the building to ensure that it aligns with the approved building plan and local building codes and regulations. Once the inspection is satisfactory, the authority will issue the completion and occupancy certificate.

The completion and occupancy certificate indicate that the building is safe and suitable for occupation. It also shows that the project has met all the legal requirements for construction in Embu County Government.

NEMA Approval:

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) approval is required for all new construction projects. NEMA approval is necessary to ensure that the project does not have any adverse environmental impacts.

FAQs 

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Building Plan Approval Process in Embu County Government:

1. What Is The First Step In Obtaining A Construction Permit In Embu County Government?

The first step in obtaining a construction permit in Embu County Government is to conduct a site survey and prepare the necessary drawings for your building plan.

2. How Do I Submit A Building Plan Application In Embu County Government?

You can submit your building plan application in person at the Embu County Government offices, or online through the county government website.

3. What Happens After I Submit My Building Plan Application?

After you submit your building plan application, it will be reviewed and assessed by the relevant authorities. You may be required to make changes to your building plan before it can be approved.

4. What Is Involved In The Site Inspection Stage Of The Building Plan Approval Process?

During the site inspection stage, a government inspector will visit the construction site to verify that the building is being constructed in accordance with the approved plan.

5. How Do I Register My Construction Project With The National Construction Authority Of Kenya (NCA)?

To register your construction project with the NCA, you will need to meet the registration requirements, complete the online registration process, and obtain an NCA registration number. You will also be required to display your NCA number at the construction site.

6. What Is The Process For Building Construction In Embu County Government?

The building construction process in Embu County Government involves obtaining a construction permit, conducting site inspections, and obtaining a completion and occupancy certificate.

7. What Is A Completion And Occupancy Certificate?

A completion and occupancy certificate is a document issued by the government that verifies that a building has been constructed in accordance with the approved plan and is safe for occupation.

8. What Is NEMA Approval?

NEMA approval is required for construction projects that may have a significant impact on the environment. This approval is granted by the National Environment Management Authority.

9. How Long Does It Take To Obtain A Construction Permit In Embu County Government?

The length of time it takes to obtain a construction permit in Embu County Government can vary depending on the complexity of the project and how quickly you are able to complete each stage of the approval process.

10. Are There Any Penalties For Building Without A Permit In Embu County Government?

Yes, building without a permit in Embu County Government is illegal and can result in fines, demolition of the building, or other legal consequences.