Most homes in Nairobi’s middle- and upper-income areas have layers of security: a gate and guard, an alarm linked to a response company, and often an electric fence. How much you need depends on the type of home and the area.

Apartments

Most apartment blocks already have a gate, askaris, CCTV and controlled access, paid for through the service charge. Before renting, check:

  • Guards are on duty day and night.
  • Visitors are checked and signed in.
  • There is secure parking.
  • Your own door has a good lock, and ground-floor windows have grilles.

Houses

Houses usually need their own arrangements:

  • A guard at the gate, day and night, or at night only.
  • An alarm with panic buttons, linked to a response company that sends a car when it goes off.
  • Electric fencing on the perimeter wall.
  • Security lights and CCTV.
  • Burglar bars and a secure inner door to the bedrooms (a “safe haven”).

In many areas, residents’ associations organise shared guards and street patrols.

Choosing a security company

  • Licensing - private security companies must be registered with the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA).
  • Response time - ask how many cars cover your area and how fast they arrive. Ask neighbours.
  • Guards’ pay and conditions - guards must be paid at least the minimum wage. Companies paying below it tend to have tired, unmotivated staff. See Minimum wage.
  • Contract terms - notice period, what is included, and who pays for false alarms.

Large national companies and many smaller local firms operate in Nairobi.

Everyday habits

  • Know your guards by name, and tell them who you are expecting.
  • Don’t let anyone in who claims to be from Kenya Power, the landlord or the county without checking first.
  • Test the alarm and panic buttons every month.
  • Keep valuables out of sight from the gate and windows.
  • Vary routines if you are concerned, and keep emergency numbers handy.

See Safety in Nairobi.

If something happens

Press the panic button, stay in a safe room if you can, call the response company and the police on 999, and do not resist armed intruders. Report the crime and get an OB number. See Reporting a crime.

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