Understanding the documents involved in land transactions is crucial for ensuring a secure investment. One important document is the Registry Index Map (RIM). While a title deed is commonly known to show ownership, the RIM holds significant importance in verifying the physical existence and precise location of the property within the boundaries of Kenya.

What is a Registry Index Map (RIM)?

A Registry Index Map is a critical document from the Department of Survey that confirms the existence and location of the plot referenced in the title deed.  The RIMs provide a detailed representation of land parcels within a defined grid system. Each region in Kenya is mapped based on ground surveys, and these maps collectively form the national record of all land in Kenya. 

Obtaining a Certified Copy of the RIM

Here is an overview of the process of obtaining a certified copy of the RIM for your property::

1. Payment of Fees: Start by visiting the cash department of the Department of Survey and paying the required fee. You will receive a receipt for this payment.
2. Retrieving the certified copy of the Map: Take the receipt, together with your ID and a copy of the title deed, to the Survey Department to request a certified copy of the RIM showing your lot. The department typically has only one or two original copies.
3. Certification Process: The office will retrieve the velum and make a certified copy for you. It must be stamped by the district surveyor to be considered a certified copy.

The RIM proves that your property physically exists within Kenya’s geographical boundaries. This is crucial, as it verifies that the land parcel is registered and mapped accurately on the ground.

The entire country is divided into a grid system, with each region meticulously mapped. This comprehensive survey ensures that every parcel of land is accounted for and accurately represented.

Any changes to the land, such as subdivisions or amalgamations, are updated on the RIM, which provides the most current and precise information about the land’s status and boundaries.

Why the RIM is Preferred Over a Title Deed

The RIM is often more informative than the title deed because it visually and physically confirms the land’s existence and location. This document reassures buyers and investors that the property they are interested in is legitimate and falls within the defined boundaries of the Republic of Kenya.

The Registry Index Map (RIM) is an essential document in land transactions. It offers proof of the physical existence and accurate mapping of land parcels. By obtaining a certified copy of the RIM, you ensure that your property is legally owned and geographically verified. 

If you’re considering a land investment, don’t hesitate to contact us and secure your stake in Kenya’s promising future. Click on this link for more information on our current properties – https://bit.ly/GALProperties