Kenya’s construction industry risks exposing property owners and investors to escalating maintenance costs unless developers prioritise durable building materials, quality workmanship and sustainable construction practices, Crown Paints has warned.
The warning comes as the construction sector rebounds, recording 6.8 per cent growth in 2025, compared to a 0.7 per cent contraction in 2024, according to the Kenya national bureau of statistics (KNBS) economic survey 2026. Cement consumption also rose by 20.3 per cent, reflecting renewed construction activity.
Speaking at the Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (IQSK) Annual Convention in Mombasa, Crown Paints head of construction sector, Tom Oyier, said developers must look beyond initial construction expenses and consider the long-term performance of building materials.
“Choosing cheaper materials without considering durability and maintenance requirements can lead to repeated repairs and higher costs over time. The industry must shift its focus from the lowest initial price to the long-term value of buildings,” Oyier argued.
He emphasised that sustainable construction begins with proper planning, material specifications and quality application, which help minimise waste, extend building lifespans and protect property investments.
“Sustainability is not just an environmental responsibility. It also makes economic sense. Selecting the right materials from the outset reduces unnecessary repairs, replacement costs and material wastage while delivering lasting value,” he added.
Oyier urged quantity surveyors to champion lifecycle costing by considering product durability, maintenance requirements and long-term performance when advising developers on material specifications and project budgets.
With Kenya targeting at least 200,000 affordable housing units annually, the firm said maintaining construction quality while controlling future maintenance expenses will be critical to delivering sustainable housing.
To support informed building and design decisions, the firm unveiled its Crown Colour Visualizer, a digital tool that enables developers and architects to assess colour combinations before application to reduce costly design changes.
The paint manufacturer has rolled out Crown Italia Series, a range of premium decorative finishes designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of residential, commercial and institutional developments.
“Manufacturers must move beyond supplying products to providing technical expertise that helps developers improve building performance, manage costs and protect investments over the long term,” said Oyier.
As part of its environmental sustainability initiatives, Crown Paints is supporting a tree-planting activity during the convention. The company is participating as a Platinum Sponsor of the three-day IQSK Annual Convention at Sarova Whitesands, Mombasa, under the theme “Owning Our Space – Construction Dynamics, Infrastructure Involvement & Project Financing.”