How to Replace a Lost Title Deed in Kenya – A Step-by-Step Guide by Felamin Estate
Losing your title deed can be stressful—but it’s not the end of the road. A title deed is a crucial legal document that proves ownership of land or property in Kenya. Whether it’s misplaced, stolen, or destroyed, there’s a clear process you can follow to replace it.
At Felamin Estate, we understand how important secure land ownership is. That’s why we’ve prepared this simple, step-by-step guide to help you replace a lost title deed in Kenya legally and efficiently.
📝 Step 1: Make a Formal Loss Report at the Police Station
As soon as you realize the title deed is missing, visit the nearest police station and file an official report. You’ll be issued with a Police Abstract stating the loss. This document is essential for the legal replacement process.
✅ Tip: Mention the full land details (plot number, location, and registered owner) in the report.
📰 Step 2: Publish a Notice in the Kenya Gazette
The law requires that the loss of a title deed be officially gazetted. This means publishing a notice in the Kenya Gazette, a government publication that records official legal matters. This serves as a public alert and is a necessary step in the title replacement process.
The notice must include:
- Registered landowner’s name
- Plot number and location
- Registration details
- A declaration of loss and intent to apply for a replacement title
🕒 You must wait 60 days after gazettement before the title can be replaced.
📂 Step 3: Swear an Affidavit of Loss
You (or the registered landowner) must swear a statutory affidavit before a Commissioner for Oaths. This document legally affirms the loss and your intention to apply for a new title.
The affidavit should:
- Explain the circumstances under which the deed was lost
- Include full land details and owner ID info
- Reference the police abstract and Gazette notice
🏢 Step 4: Apply for Replacement at the Lands Registry
With the affidavit, abstract, and Gazette notice ready, submit your application for a replacement title deed at the relevant Ministry of Lands registry where the land is registered.
Attach the following documents:
- Duly filled application form (obtain from Lands office)
- Police Abstract
- Affidavit of loss
- Kenya Gazette notice
- Copy of the original title (if available)
- Copy of your ID and KRA PIN
- Passport-sized photos
- Land search receipt (recent search results)
💵 Step 5: Pay the Required Fees
You’ll be required to pay a prescribed fee for the processing of the replacement title. As of now, the fee ranges between Ksh 5,000–10,000, depending on the land and registry.
Always request a receipt for the payment—it will be needed during document collection.
📜 Step 6: Await Issuance of New Title Deed
After verification and approval, the Lands Registry will issue a new title deed. This process may take 30 to 90 days, depending on the registry’s backlog and accuracy of your documents.
The new title deed will be marked “Duplicate” to indicate it’s a replacement, but it carries the same legal weight as the original.
⚠️ Important Notes:
- You cannot sell or transfer land without a title deed, so begin replacement immediately once it’s lost.
- If the original title was held as collateral in a bank or SACCO, notify the institution.
- If you suspect fraud or title misuse, consult a property lawyer before applying for a replacement.
✅ Final Thoughts from Felamin Estate
At Felamin Estate, we always advise our clients to safeguard their title deeds, but if loss happens, don’t panic. The process is straightforward—as long as you follow the legal steps and stay patient.
Owning land is a legacy worth protecting. If you’re unsure about how to go about it, we’re here to help guide you or connect you with a trusted land legal expert.
📞 Need Help with Title Deed Replacement?
Reach out to Felamin Estate for support, guidance, or professional referrals—we’re with you every step of the way.
