The cost of building a toilet in Kenya is between 70,000 to 300,000 on average. A toilet is an essential facility, especially in social gathering places and institutions such as churches, a school, markets, offices, malls, and so on.
When making a decision to put up a toilet or put a latrine structure, the cost of your project might not be clear while it’s among the prime determinant factors of the type and size of the toilet you shall build.
Away from the average, we are going to narrow down the cost of materials and labor needed for you to complete your toilet. The real cost of building your custom toilet shall vary depending on factors in play for your project. A pit latrine facility shall cost less than a toilet facility.
The types of fittings and design of a toilet or put latrine can either raise or lower the total cost. Below is a breakdown of the cost of constructing a pit latrine or toilet in Kenya.
Cost Of Constructing A Toilet Or Latrine In Kenya
| Part | Number Of Parts | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of building a pit latrine | 1 Toilet | 70,000+ shillings |
| Cost of building a toilet | 1 Latrine | 150,000 to 300,000 shillings |
| Cost of digging a pit for the latrine | 1 pit | 10,000 to 20,000 shillings |
| Labor | Varies from project to project | Manual Labor – 400-800 shillings Fundis – 1,000 to 2,000 shillings per day Foreman – 2,000+ shillings |
| Legal and policy compliance costs when building a pit latrine or toilet in Kenya | – | 10,000 to 15,000 shillings |
Factors That Determine The Total Cost Of Building a toilet Or Pit Latrine In Kenya
1. Type Of Toilet Or Latrine
The cost of building different types of latrines varies based on their construction materials, styles, and professionalism needed. There are two main types, that is the pit latrine and the toilet. Building a pit latrine is easier and cheaper compared to a toilet.
For a pit latrine, you only need to bore a hole and build a simple foundation with a hole on the top plus the surrounding walls, doors, windows, and a roof.
A toilet needs more plumbing and building work since the deposits should be delivered to a septic tank, you need to install a ceramic toilet and do some plumbing work for flushing water. Still, for a toilet, you shall need extra water for flushing and hence a constant source of water.
2. Type of construction materials
When building either a pit latrine or toilet, you shall need material inputs. Materials include cement, roofing materials, blocks, sand, a flushing toilet set, windows, doors, pipes, water tanks, taps, wires, attachments, lights, and so on. Depending on the type and complexity of the structure you choose, your total cost of building a toilet or pit latrine shall either be high or low.
A complex modern toilet structure shall need more input of materials that are expensive compared to a put latrine which needs basic construction materials. The design shall also influence the quality and type of materials you use, a complex design demand for costly materials compared to a simple design.
3. Geological Factors
For a toilet or put latrine, the hole for a septic tank shall need to be sunk. Sinking a hole in the ground with soft dry soil shall be easier and cheaper compared to a mashy or rocky place. If you have the option to choose the location for your toilet construction site, go for an area with dry soft soil to save on the costs of sinking the hole.
4. Cost Of Modern Toilets
The cost of building a standard modern toilet is 70,000 to 300,000 shillings on average. Modern Toilets are made to incorporate the mechanisms and qualities of an in-house toilet. They have a toilet seat and can be flushed.
Collection of deposits for modern Toilets is done using a septic tank just like the in-house toilet. Finishing of modern Toilets is done to make them look clean and amazing, incorporations such as tiles, modern fancy faucets, classy toilet seats, lights, and paints make the toilet look clean and modern.
Cost of Building A pit Latrine
Building A pit latrine in Kenya costs between 70,000 to 150,000 shillings. A pit latrine is common in Kenya even in residential homes. Kenyans are used to building a pit latrine to serve their needs especially those who own temporary non self-contained residences.
For a pit latrine, the time and process of construction are shorter, easier, and cheaper. However, a pit latrine looks and functions basic which might discourage those who prefer elegance and efficiency in their structures.
Toilet Vs Pit Latrine – Which should you build?
When it comes to comparison and choice between a pit latrine and a toilet, you shall consider your capital and preferences. In case you are running on a budget, then opting for a pit latrine shall be an economical option to go for.
However, in case you are more focused on the looks and efficiency of your toilet, going for a modern toilet shall be your best option since it provides a flushing facility, a clean quality finish, and elegant attachments.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Cost Of Building A toilet In Kenya
The cost of building a standard modern toilet is 70,000 to 300,000 shillings on average.
Building A pit latrine in Kenya costs between 70,000 to 150,000 shillings. A pit latrine is common in Kenya even in residential homes. Its cost shall vary depending on the custom factors of your project.
A pit latrine should be 3 to 4 meters deep. However, there are considerations you should note when determining the depth of your pit latrine pit. As per the the WHO, a pit latrine should not be near groundwater and the water table. Ensure your pit is at least 2-3 meters above the water table and at least 30 feet from nearby ground waters.
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