Here are mistakes  to avoid when constructing  your dream home

Briefly describe your journey

 I studied civil engineering technology in 1999 at Masinde Muliro University, which was then known as the Western College. Surprisingly, my uncle selected the course for me, it wasn’t my choice.

I realised later my paternal grandfather was a building contractor. I fell in love with it and I have never regretted following that path.

I am passionate about buildings, especially those that are well constructed and designed. It is now 17 years since I joined the industry. 

What does a civil engineering technologist do?

They work with other consultants and contractors in designing and supervision of a construction project.

They are normally charged by consultants to make sure work is done according to working plans and drawings and specifications.

I work and partner with civil and structural engineers and architects to implement their designs and specifications in my projects.

What inspired you to set up your blog, Ujenzi Today?

My inspiration came from watching what developers go through in the hands of unscrupulous players (contractors, consultants and suppliers) in the industry.

I thought of starting a blog where I could give basic information to help in cost cutting tips and to help developers get their money’s worth, thereby achieving the dreams of owning their homes.

Due diligence is required before settling on contractors, consultants and materials suppliers, which is a necessity that can save you a lot of mental anguish as you build your dream home. 

I talk about the industry, with various articles touching on house designs, project cost and actual construction.

In addition, the blog assists people to actualise their dreams of home ownership in a stress-free atmosphere, within a reasonable budget according to their needs and lifestyle.

In as much as there are fraudsters in the construction industry, there are also equally many more skilled, experienced, trustworthy players.

What are the challenges facing the construction industry presently?

First, you might meet a client who has little information about building a house, but  insists on an impractical idea for that house.

We also deal with clients who are well informed and know what they want for their projects. However, they may insist on new ideas and technologies that are not available in the country yet.

Mostly, this is on finishing stage, especially interiors, where you can have a new item, yet you don’t have proper knowledge on installation.

Sometimes, we lack ready and available spare parts for repairs when they get defective. Some fittings are also not meant for Kenya;  for instance Chinese toilet bowls are so small that when an African man or woman who has properly eaten ugali, goes for a long call, it fills and blocks, so you have to flush repeatedly!

How does that affect the industry?

It results in substandard work. When you use materials or fittings not suited for our local market, it results in wastage of resources in terms of a lot of repairs and maintenance and at times, doing the work afresh.

What should someone consider before they build a house?

The first thing a client should consider before is budget. How much are you willing to spend in building your house? What’s your lifestyle?

That is, what’s the expected number and age of people who would live in that house. Do you have any member of your house with special needs? What’s the number and size of each room? Is it a low level (bungalow) or a mansion?

 What is your company all about?

Rimm Global Consortium Ltd is a one stop shop for all the construction needs. We basically do turnkey projects — this is where a single entity or firm does everything in a project, that is design and build for a developer  or client.

 What are the trends in housing designs?

Some of the emerging trends is flat roof. Mostly concrete flat roof or even flat ironsheet roofed hidden by parapet wall all round the house.

The pitched iron sheet has become a bit monotonous. Another emerging trend is the installation of  small home lifts in place of traditional stairs.

Plus many more, including  gypsum ceiling in the finishing stage of building a house, sliding steel doors and natural stone cladding (the application of one material over another to provide a skin or layer) of internal or external of buildings. 

 How has Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the industry?

The major effect of pandemic is the rise in cost of production. For example 8mm deformed reinforcement bar that used to cost Sh400 before pandemic, goes for Sh600 per bar.

Steel related items, roofing sheets, steel sheets and tubes, hoop iron are the worst affected. The cost of wages has also gone up. Developers are also struggling to build homes.  For example, most of the residential projects I started in 2020 are yet to be completed to date.