Homeowners at Karibu Homes in Athi River, Kenya, are facing eviction from their houses due to concerns over structural defects that have caused visible cracks to emerge on several apartment blocks. The development consists of 500 residential units spread across 63 apartment blocks in phases one and two. The issue has sparked a dispute between homeowners and the developer, with residents demanding accountability over the condition of the buildings.
The cracks are visible in blocks M, N, and P, known as the London blocks, with vertical cracks running along the expansion joints from the rooftop to the ground floor. The cracks are present both inside and outside the buildings, raising concerns among residents who have lived in Karibu Homes for over eight years. Homeowners have expressed worry about the condition of their properties and the potential risks to their safety.
Homeowners Kenneth Njukira and Mary Rukwaro have spoken out about the issue, calling for the developer to be held accountable for the condition of the properties. Njukira stated that an assessment by five government agencies found structural defects and recommended repairs. Rukwaro expressed frustration that the properties were not properly built, leaving homeowners with nothing to show for their investment.
The eviction notice has caused distress for families, who face financial losses and disruption to their children's education. For Samuel Kopi, leaving his home means giving up a place he had hoped to pass down to his generation. Kopi is struggling to come to terms with the decision to leave, as he is still servicing a loan for the property and has to find alternative accommodation.
The county government of Machakos has sent an enforcement notice to the developer, citing several contraventions, including allowing occupation without acquiring a certificate of compliance and developing substandard residential buildings that pose a danger to the public. The notice has added to the pressure on homeowners, who must now decide whether to stay and demand answers or seek safety elsewhere.
As the eviction deadline approaches, affected homeowners face an agonizing choice. Some are considering staying in their homes and demanding answers from the developer, while others are looking for alternative accommodation. The situation has caused significant stress and uncertainty for the families affected, who have invested years and resources into their homes.
The dispute highlights the need for accountability and regulation in the construction industry, particularly in Kenya's rapidly growing urban areas. Homeowners are seeking a resolution to the crisis, and the developer must take responsibility for the condition of the properties. The outcome will have significant implications for the affected families and the broader community.
Key points
- Homeowners at Karibu Homes in Athi River face eviction due to structural defects and visible cracks in several apartment blocks.
- The county government of Machakos has sent an enforcement notice to the developer, citing several contraventions.
- The dispute highlights the need for accountability and regulation in the construction industry.
