How to Apply for Water Connection in Nairobi — A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a new water connection in Nairobi does not have to be complicated. The Nairobi City Water & Sewerage Company (NCWSC)—a wholly owned subsidiary of Nairobi City County—manages all water and sewerage services in the city.

They handle every new connection application through an online portal, which means you can start the process from anywhere without visiting their offices.

This guide walks you through every document you need, the materials you must buy, and each step of the application process from start to finish.

What You Need to Apply for a Water Connection in Nairobi

Before you open the NCWSC portal, gather everything on both lists below. Missing even one document will delay your application.

Documents Required

Water Connection Materials You Must Purchase

NCWSC requires you to buy and supply your own connection materials. You will also cater for connection charges separately. The materials you need are:

• Connection clamp
• Gate valve
• Barrel nipple
• Socket
• Pipe
• Elbow
• Long nipple
• Union
• Tee
• Meter point

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Water Connection in Nairobi

Step 1 — Clear All Existing Bills

Before NCWSC processes your application, you must clear any outstanding bills linked to the property (LR number) or any other existing contracts you hold with NCWSC. Pending bills on any account — whether on the property or owned by you personally — will block your application completely.

Step 2 — Fill Out the Online Application

Visit the NCWSC portal at https://portal.nairobiwater.co.ke/pages/index and complete the online application form. Fill in all required fields accurately and attach the following on the portal:

• Property location sketch map (draw on the space provided in the form)
• One passport-size photograph
• Copy of your ID and KRA PIN
• Copy of the landlord’s ID and KRA PIN (if you are applying as a tenant)

Step 3 — Download, Sign, and Pay

Once you complete the form, download it, sign it, and make your payment via *888#. The portal displays the exact application charges at https://portal.nairobiwater.co.ke/applications/watersewercharge. After payment, upload the signed form back onto the portal.

Step 4 — Receive Your Reference Number

After you submit your completed application, NCWSC assigns you a reference number. This confirms that they have received your application and opened your account for processing. Keep this number — you will need it to track your application.

Step 5 — Track Your Application and Wait for Connection

You can monitor your application status directly on the NCWSC portal using your reference number. NCWSC connects new consumers within 14 days of a successful application. Use the portal to stay updated rather than making unnecessary calls or office visits.

Technical Standards for Your Water Connection

NCWSC follows specific installation standards that their team enforces during connection. Your connection point must meet these specifications:

• Standard excavation depth: 0.6 to 1 metre
• Height above ground: 300 mm above ground level
• Meter positioning: Horizontal meter fixing, positioned at the entrance of your gate

Nairobi City Water & Sewerage Company Contacts

If you run into any issues during your application or need clarification, reach NCWSC through the following:

Start your application early, clear any pending bills first, and track your progress on the NCWSC portal to avoid delays in getting connected.