I S K

Members Chapter

Valuation Chapter

A Valuer is a trained professional who specializes in assessing the value of assets—both physical and intangible. This includes land, real estate, businesses, plant and machinery including motor vehicles, crops, office and business equipment, shares and equity interests, licenses, permits, and franchises , intellectual properties and mineral resources. Valuers play a vital role in helping individuals, businesses, and governments make informed decisions about investments, taxes, loans, compensation, and more.

To become a valuer, one must go through degree course in real estate or related field as recognized by the Council , have practical experience of not less than two years and have passed the professional examination offered by the Institution. Valuation  demands accuracy, integrity, and a strong ethical foundation. All valuers who are members of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) must adhere to the Kenya Valuation Stanrads 2021 and principles laid out in the ISK Constitution.

Today, valuers operate in an ever-changing environment influenced by new technologies, sustainability considerations, and evolving regulations. As the real estate and finance industries continue to grow and diversify, so does the role of the professional valuer.

What Do Valuers Do?

Valuers offer a wide range of services across different sectors. Their work includes:

  1. Valuing Businesses and Intangible Assets: This includes brand value, goodwill, licenses, and intellectual property—especially useful during business sales, mergers, or investments.
  2. Valuation of Mineral Lands and Extractive Resources: Valuers assess the worth of properties with natural resources like oil, gas, or minerals.
  3. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Assessments: They help calculate accurate CGT when properties are sold, ensuring compliance with tax laws.
  4. Motor Vehicle Valuations: These are done for a variety of clients—including KRA, insurance firms, banks, and individuals—especially during sales, loans, or claims.
  5. Corporate Recovery and Insolvency Support: In cases of liquidation or restructuring, valuers help determine the value of assets and guide decision-making.
  6. Investment Advisory: They advise on real estate investment strategies, including REITs, debt structuring, and asset-backed lending.

Their main responsibilities include:

  1. Estimating Market Value – Determining the fair market value of property for purposes such as sale, purchase, leasing, or investment.
  2. Valuations for Lending – Helping banks and financial institutions determine collateral value for loans and mortgages.
  3. Insurance Valuations – Calculating the replacement cost of property for insurance coverage.
  4. Taxation and Rating – Providing values for land and property taxation and rates assessment.
  5. Compensation and Acquisition – Assessing compensation amounts for land acquired by the government or developers.
  6. Feasibility Studies – Advising on the viability and potential returns of development projects.
  7. Litigation Support – Offering expert valuation evidence in legal cases, such as land disputes or divorce settlements.
  8. Valuations for Financial Reporting – Providing asset values for corporate balance sheets, audits, and financial disclosures

Valuers are also involved in land reform processes, large-scale infrastructure projects, rating for local governments, and guiding compensation for land acquisition.

Professional Growth and Practice

Becoming a Valuer isn’t just about passing exams—continuous learning is key. Members are expected to:

  • Stay up to date with planning regulations and professional standards;
  • Take part in preparing project papers and undergoing oral exams;
  • Build their skills through practical work and project management

Current Officials:

  • Nicholas Mbugua – Chairperson
  • Partrick Munene – Secretary

A Land Surveyor is a trained professional responsible for the collection, analysis, presentation, and management of spatial data to support land information systems. At the core of their work lies the accurate determination of land boundaries, which forms the foundation for land registration, ownership, conveyancing, development planning, and resource management.

Land Surveyors play a critical role in the land administration ecosystem, offering technical expertise in boundary definition, spatial referencing, and survey documentation. Their work is essential in ensuring that property ownership is clearly defined and legally recognized, thereby supporting land tenure security and enabling investment in land and property.

Scope of Practice

Members of the Land Surveyors Chapter—comprising licensed surveyors, associate surveyors, and approved assistants—provide a wide range of land survey services aligned with the Land Act, Land Registration Act, and Survey Act. These professionals work under the direction and regulation of the Director of Surveys and in compliance with established national laws and standards. Key services offered by Land Surveyors include:

  • New Grant Surveys – Establishing and defining boundaries for allocation of land by the government.
  • Subdivisions and Amalgamations – Reconfiguring land parcels for development, inheritance, or sale.
  • Land Adjudication Surveys – Surveying land in areas undergoing formal registration and ownership documentation.
  • Wayleave and Easement Surveys – Mapping access corridors and infrastructure rights-of-way, including roads, pipelines, and utility lines.
  • Sectional Property Surveys – Preparing spatial layouts and survey plans for apartment blocks and other multi-unit developments, in compliance with the Sectional Properties Act.
  • Due Diligence in Property Transactions – Conducting land boundary verifications and confirming survey records to support legal and commercial property dealings.

These services are critical to the registration process, enabling secure land titling, supporting infrastructure development, and reducing disputes over boundaries and ownership.

Professional Structure and Regulation

Land Surveyors within the ISK operate under a well-defined structure:

  • Licensed Surveyors – Registered and licensed by the Director of Surveys to practice independently.
  • Approved Assistants – Trained personnel supporting field and office survey operations under the supervision of licensed or associate surveyors.

Together, they form the backbone of Kenya’s land information infrastructure, providing the data and documentation necessary throughout the land and property lifecycle.

The Role of ISK

The Land Surveyors Chapter of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya provides a platform for:

  • Professional Development – Through workshops, training, and access to current best practices and technologies.
  • Self-Regulation and Ethical Oversight – Promoting integrity, competence, and accountability among practitioners.
  • Collaboration and Advocacy – Representing surveyors’ interests in policy dialogue and contributing to national development goals.

Through this forum, land surveyors work together to uphold the highest standards of service delivery, improve public trust in the profession, and support the orderly development and administration of land across the country.

Current Officials:

  • Erastus Chege- Chairperson
  • Livingstone Asala- Secretary

An Engineering Surveyor is a specialized professional in the field of surveying who provides critical support across various engineering disciplines—including civil, agricultural, mechanical, electrical, and aviation engineering. These experts apply advanced spatial measurement and data management techniques to support the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure and utility projects.

Engineering Surveyors are essential to the successful execution of large-scale projects such as roads, railways, ports, airports, dams, and utility networks (power, water, and telecom), as well as in hydrographic (bathymetric) surveys of water bodies. Their role spans both the planning and implementation phases, ensuring that engineering works are built accurately, efficiently, and in alignment with design specifications. Engineering Surveyors focus on non-title survey work—meaning their efforts are directed more toward infrastructure development and technical applications rather than land ownership documentation.

Scope of Expertise

Members of the Engineering Surveyors Chapter typically offer services in the following areas:

  • Engineering Surveying – Supporting civil and structural works such as road alignment, bridge layout, tunnels, dams, and buildings.
  • Utility Surveying – Mapping and setting out of utility infrastructure including water lines, electrical grids, sewer systems, and fiber-optic cables.
  • Hydrographic and Bathymetric Surveying – Measuring and mapping underwater features for harbors, rivers, lakes, and marine engineering.
  • Construction (As-Built) Surveys – Verifying that completed works match design specifications, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • Infrastructure Surveying – Supporting the development of large-scale infrastructure such as ports, railways, airports, and pipelines.
  • Monitoring and Deformation Surveys – Observing structural changes and movements over time to ensure safety and integrity.

These professionals are deeply integrated into project teams, collaborating closely with engineers, architects, and planners to ensure technical precision and high-quality project delivery.

About the Chapter

The Engineering Surveyors Chapter (ES Chapter) was officially ratified during the 45th ISK Annual General Meeting held in Mombasa and formally launched on 12th August 2014. The chapter was established to bring together practitioners in this niche but critical field under a unified professional forum. The vision of the chapter is to unite all practicing Engineering Surveyors in Kenya, providing a platform for engagement, knowledge sharing, and advocacy around the unique needs of the profession.

Mission and Commitment

As a chapter, we are committed to:

  • Promoting professionalism and high ethical standards
  • Enhancing quality of service through continued learning and innovation
  • Embracing dynamism to keep pace with emerging technologies and industry demands
  • Encouraging membership growth and active participation in ISK activities

Membership is open in line with the existing categories defined by ISK, including student, graduate, technician, full, and fellow members. All professionals working in any aspect of engineering-related surveying are encouraged to join and contribute to the advancement of the discipline.

Get in Touch

We welcome professionals and aspiring Engineering Surveyors to engage with us, learn more about what we do, and join our growing community. For more information, kindly contact the ISK Secretariat.

Current Officials:

  • Joe Ondulo- Chairperson
  • Edgar Selebwa- Secretary

The GIS Chapter brings together professionals with specialized training and experience in Geospatial Information Systems (GIS), Cartography, Remote Sensing, and Photogrammetry. Our members are experts in acquiring, processing, analyzing, and visualizing location-based data to support smart, evidence-based decisions across sectors. From urban planning and land administration to disaster management and environmental monitoring, GIS professionals provide the spatial insights that drive progress and sustainability.

What does the Chapter do?

GIS Chapter members work across a broad spectrum of spatial data services, including:

  • Geospatial Data Acquisition – Satellite, aerial, UAV, and field data collection
  • Spatial Analysis & Modeling – Turning data into actionable insights
  • Mapping & Visualization – Creating maps, dashboards, and 3D models
  • Photogrammetry & Remote Sensing – Interpreting imagery for land, water, and infrastructure analysis
  • Data Management & Integration – Building systems for accurate and accessible geospatial databases
  • Decision Support – Enabling location-based planning and resource allocation.

Our Mission

We are committed to:

  • Promoting awareness of spatial information and its value in national development
  • Supporting the use of geospatial tools in planning, governance, and service delivery
  • Encouraging best practices in data collection, management, and visualization
  • Advancing the role of GIS in e-government and smart solutions
  • Upholding professional and data-quality standards in geospatial practice

Why GIS Matters

In today’s digital world, location intelligence is critical. GIS professionals help answer key questions like where, why, and how things happen, making them essential in designing resilient cities, managing resources, planning infrastructure, and responding to climate and societal challenges.

Join the GIS Chapter

Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner, a student entering the field, or an organization interested in the power of spatial data—you belong here.

For membership inquiries or to learn more, please reach out to the ISK Secretariat or visit our Contact Us page.

Current Officials:

  • Collins Mwange- Chairman
  • Mr. Solomon Gitau – Secretary

Building Surveyors are property professionals with specialized training in the inspection, maintenance, and management of buildings. Our work ensures that structures remain safe, functional, and compliant with legal and regulatory standards throughout their lifecycle. As members of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya, we bring together expertise in building condition assessment, maintenance planning, and property management to deliver reliable and efficient building solutions.

What We Do

Our members are involved in a wide range of services, including:

  • Building Registration and Categorization: Documenting and classifying buildings for proper management and oversight.
  • Structural and Condition Surveys: Identifying defects, assessing safety, and recommending appropriate remedial actions.
  • Maintenance Planning and Renovation: Preparing sketch plans, specifications, and budgets for repair and refurbishment works—and overseeing their execution.
  • Inspection and Reporting: Providing detailed inspection reports on the structural, sanitary, and decorative status of buildings.
  • Building Improvement Projects: Planning and implementing works to enhance safety, usability, and aesthetic appeal.
  • Advisory and Dispute Resolution: Offering expert advice on building laws, lease disputes, and maintenance contracts, including expert witness services.
  • Estate Management: Managing housing estates, handling space allocation, rent collection, lease preparation, and renewal.
  • Decommissioning and Obsolescence Management: Conducting inspections for the condemnation of unsafe or outdated buildings.
  • Data and Inventory Management: Compiling and maintaining building inventories and maintenance manuals for long-term asset planning.

Why It Matters

Building Surveyors play a critical role in Kenya’s built environment. From individual property owners to large-scale housing estates, we provide the technical insight and project oversight needed to ensure buildings meet safety standards, retain value, and serve their users effectively. Contact the ISK Secretariat for membership details or further information.

Current Officials:

  • Michael Mburu- Chairperson
  • Stephen Matete- Secretary

Land Adminstration Managers are professionals with specialized training in the sustainable use, planning, and development of land resources. We play a central role in facilitating land use decisions, ensuring legal compliance, and guiding development proposals from conception to completion. LAM members are uniquely equipped to oversee land development, management, and administration processes across both the public and private sectors.

What We Do

Land Management Surveyors combine technical knowledge, legal expertise, and economic insight to provide a wide range of services, including:

  • Advising on Development Proposals: Acting on behalf of property owners to prepare, submit, and manage development applications and approvals.
  • Land Use Planning and Policy Guidance: Ensuring land use aligns with national and county-level planning regulations while promoting sustainable practices.
  • Land Law and Administration: Navigating complex land tenure systems, land rights, and regulatory frameworks to provide compliant and equitable land solutions.
  • Project Oversight:Managing the entire lifecycle of development—from acquisition, approvals, implementation, and finally, the disposal of property.
  • Property Performance Optimization:Providing guidance aimed at maximizing returns from land and property through effective use, planning, and disposal strategies.
  • Public and Private Sector Support: Our members serve in government agencies, consultancies, real estate firms, and development organizations—offering technical services and policy advice at various scales.

Why It Matters

In a country where land remains one of the most valuable and contested resources, Land Management Surveyors serve as custodians of orderly, legal, and sustainable land use. We bridge the gap between regulation and development—ensuring land resources deliver economic, social, and environmental value. Reach out to the ISK Secretariat for guidance on membership and training opportunities.

Current Officials:

  • Priscillah Nyaga – Chairperson
  • Ms. Janet Aluoch – Secretary

Estate Agents—are trusted experts who facilitate the sale, rental, and management of land, buildings, and other property assets. Whether working independently or through established firms, these professionals play a vital role in Kenya’s property market by connecting buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and investors with accurate market insights and practical transaction support. At the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK), the Estate Agency Chapter brings together members with the technical skills, legal knowledge, and market understanding required to deliver value across a wide range of real estate services.

What We Do

Our professionals handle the day-to-day and strategic aspects of real estate transactions and management, ensuring clients make informed decisions and achieve their property goals. Key services offered include:

  • Letting and Selling of Assets: Marketing and facilitating the sale or lease of diverse assets including land, residential and commercial buildings, machinery, equipment, and businesses.
  • Real Estate Market Surveys: Conducting in-depth market research to determine property trends, pricing benchmarks, and investment opportunities.
  • Feasibility Studies: Evaluating proposed real estate projects for viability, risks, and expected returns—helping developers and investors make sound investment decisions.
  • Site Acquisition: Identifying and securing optimal locations for development or investment based on the client’s needs and market trends.
  • Conveyancing Support: Assisting clients with land transfers and legal documentation—including preparation of sale agreements, registration of titles, payment of statutory fees, and obtaining necessary consents.
  • Land Registration Facilitation: Navigating the registration process to ensure the lawful transfer and recognition of property rights.
  • Insolvency and Liquidation Advisory: Offering professional services in cases of property-related liquidation or bankruptcy, including valuation, asset disposal, and debt recovery processes.

Why Choose a Registered Estate Agent?

Engaging a registered real estate professional ensures that transactions are handled ethically, transparently, and in compliance with legal requirements. Our members uphold the highest standards of professionalism and are guided by ISK’s code of conduct and commitment to continuous learning. Contact the ISK Secretariat to connect with a certified real estate agent or learn more about becoming a member of this chapter.

Current Officials:

  • Esther Mwangi – Chairperson
  • Antony Maina – Secretary

A property manager is a professional, firm, or company entrusted with overseeing and managing the operations of land, buildings, and other real estate assets on behalf of property owners. Property managers aim to maintain and enhance the value of properties, ensuring they generate optimal returns while ensuring smooth operations. This role is crucial for owners who wish to outsource the day-to-day responsibilities of property management and focus on other investment areas. At the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK), the Property Management Chapter comprises professionals with specialized knowledge and expertise in real estate management. Our members are dedicated to providing high-quality services that not only sustain the physical condition of properties but also ensure they perform well financially.

What We Do

Property managers handle every aspect of property operations, from tenant relations to legal compliance. Here are the core services we provide:

  • Tenant Placement and Management: We find qualified tenants, manage leases, and handle tenant relations to ensure a smooth living or working environment. Our professionals are skilled in tenant screening and ensuring rent payments are timely and consistent.
  • Collection of Rental Income: Efficient rent collection is essential for property profitability. We ensure that rental amounts are collected promptly and ensure tenants are well-informed about payment procedures.
  • Property Maintenance and Grounds Upkeep: We take proactive measures to maintain the property’s condition, handling repairs, maintenance, and grounds upkeep to preserve or enhance the property’s value. Our team coordinates routine checks and urgent fixes to ensure the property remains in top condition.
  • Lease and Accounting Management: Property managers manage the legal aspects of leases, renewals, and terminations. We also oversee accounting tasks, including budgeting, financial reporting, and keeping accurate records of income and expenditures related to the property.
  • Human Resource Management: For larger properties, we manage staff such as security personnel, maintenance teams, and caretakers. Our professionals ensure that these teams are well-trained, motivated, and aligned with the owner’s goals.
  • Procurement of Goods and Services: Whether it’s securing cleaning services, maintenance contractors, or utilities, property managers handle the procurement of services to ensure that the property operates smoothly and efficiently.
  • Legal and Statutory Compliance: We ensure that properties are compliant with all relevant laws and regulations, including filing property taxes, handling tenant disputes, and ensuring the building adheres to safety standards.
  • Investment Appraisals: We assist property owners by conducting detailed investment appraisals, helping them understand the financial performance of their properties and advising on strategies for increasing returns or expanding their portfolios.

Why Choose a Professional Property Manager?

By hiring a qualified property manager, property owners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their investments are being handled with expertise and efficiency. Our members at ISK are committed to upholding the highest professional standards, ensuring that properties are managed ethically, legally, and profitably. Get in touch with the ISK Secretariat to find a certified property manager or learn more about becoming a member of our chapter.

Current Officials:

  • Joel Simiyu – Chairperson
  • Nancy Siror – Secretary