Tests required for High-rise Building Construction in Kenya

Construction of a high-rise building in Kenya requires critical testing at all levels to ensure that the development is sound and would last. Being an engineer with a 5 year employment in the industry; I can attest that the foundation of successful and safe projects lies in thorough testing, which is a requirement of the most recent National Building Code. These tests are essential knowledge regardless of whether you are an engineer, contractor or a developer hoping to make your way in the construction business in Kenya

What Defines a High Rise Building in Kenya

A high-rise construction in Kenya refers to all buildings that are more than 30 meters above the ground floor staircase discharge point. It is a definition stipulated in the National Building Code 2022, and it preconditions the introduction of more rigorous controls, in particular, the area of testing and compliance.

Why are Tests Mandatory in High-Rise Construction?

With the enforcement of the National Building Code 2024, Kenya has modernized its approach to construction safety. The code mandates a suite of tests for all high-rise projects, aiming to prevent structural failures and ensure public safety. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including suspension or demolition of non-compliant structures.

Key Entities Involved

Civil and Archtectural Tests Required for High-Rise Buildings 

Excavation Stage

Soil Investigation

This is geotechnical inspection that is done to foundation soil before any construction is commenced: They include: 

• Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

• Cone Penetration Test
• Borehole Drilling
• Atterberg Limits
• Proctor Compaction Test

These tests determine soil bearing capacity, composition, and suitability for supporting tall structures. According to the National Building Code 2024, soil testing is now mandatory for all construction sites, especially high-rise projects.

Groundwater Table Assessment

• Monitoring Wells
• Permeability Tests

Understanding groundwater conditions is vital to prevent future settlement or flooding issues.

Related Question:

• Why is soil testing critical before high-rise construction in Kenya?

  • Soil testing helps engineers design foundations that match site conditions, minimizing risks of collapse or excessive settlement. In Kenya, unstable soils like black cotton require special treatment, as outlined in the new code.

Shoring and Dewatering

Strut Load Test

• Purpose: Monitors deflection and load on temporary supports during excavation.

• Significance: Ensures safety of workers and adjacent structures.

Piling

Pile Load Test

• Static and Dynamic Testing: to validate the bearing capacity of piles.

Pile Integrity Test

•  Low Strain Testing to detect defects or discontinuities in piles.

Raft Foundation

Compaction Test

• Field Density Tests(sand cone or nuclear gauge) ensure soil compaction meets design requirements.

Rebar Inspection

• Checks for correct spacing, cover, and tying of reinforcement.

Slump and Temperature Test

• Measures workability and temperature of fresh concrete.

Concrete Cube Test

• 7 & 28-day compressive strength tests to confirm concrete quality.

Waterproofing Test

• Fllod/Pond Test: checks for leaks in basement or raft slabs.

Superstructure

Rebar Inspection

• Conducted for slabs, beams, and columns before concrete placement.

Concrete Cube Test

• Routine checks for compressive strength.

Pull-out Test

• Assesses tensile strength of anchors and bolts.

Formwork Check

• Ensures verticality, stability, and correct dimensions.

Plumb and Level

• Verifies alignment of core walls and structural elements.

Architectural tests

Blockwork

• Mortar Adhesion Test: Checks bond strength between blocks.

• Alignment and Plumb Check: Ensures straight, vertical walls.

Plastering

• Thickness Gauge: Verifies plaster thickness.

• Pull-off Test: Tests adhesion of plaster to substrate.

Tilling and Flooring

• Moisture Content: Ensures substrate is dry (<4%) before tiling.

• Tile Adhesion (Pull-out): Confirms tile bonding.

• FF/FL Test: Measures floor flatness and levelness.

Painting

• Cross-Cut Test: Assesses paint adhesion.

• Visual and Thickness Check: Confirms dry film thickness (DFT) and finish quality.

Joinery and Fitouts

• Installation Tolerances: Checks alignment and hardware fitting.

• Soft Closing Test: Verifies function of drawers and doors.

Facade and Glazing

• Water Spray Test (ASTM E1105): Detects façade leakage.

• Air Tightness Test (ASTM E779 / EN 13829): Measures air permeability.

• Glass Impact / Sealant Adhesion Test: Ensures safety and durability.

Doors (Including Fire Doors)

• Drop/Closing Force Test: Checks automatic closing.

• Gap and Intumescent Seal Check: Ensures fire integrity.

Regulatory Requirements and Approval Process

Step-by-Step Overview