How to Choose the Right Renovation Contractor in Nairobi: 7 Mistakes Diaspora Clients Must Avoid

For many Kenyans in the diaspora, renovating a home back in Nairobi is one of the most rewarding investments. Whether it’s upgrading a family house in Karen, modernizing an apartment in Kilimani, or giving a villa in Runda a full makeover, the right contractor can turn your dream into reality. But the wrong choice can cost you money, time, and peace of mind.

As Kenya’s Top Interior Design Brand 2025, Prestige Bluestar has worked with dozens of diaspora clients and seen the pitfalls they face. Here’s a guide to choosing the right renovation contractor in Nairobi and the 7 mistakes to avoid.

1. Not Checking Credentials and Track Record

Many contractors make promises, but few deliver luxury-quality results. Always check:

Business registration and licensing.
Portfolio of previous projects in Nairobi.
Reviews or referrals from past clients.

👉 Prestige Bluestar provides a transparent portfolio of award-winning renovations across Nairobi’s top neighborhoods, ensuring trust from the start.

2. Choosing Based on Price Alone

The cheapest quote often ends up being the most expensive in the long run. Contractors who underquote:

Cut corners on materials.
Deliver poor workmanship.
Leave projects unfinished when funds run out.

Instead, focus on value, transparency, and accountability.

3. Lack of Clear Contracts and BoQs

Diaspora clients often fall into disputes because agreements are vague. A professional contractor should provide:

A detailed contract outlining scope, timelines, and responsibilities.
A clear Bill of Quantities (BoQ) breaking down costs.
Payment tied to milestones, not lump sums.

👉 At Prestige Bluestar, every project comes with clear contracts and milestone billing, ensuring no hidden surprises.

4. Poor Communication Systems

Distance makes communication critical. Many contractors fail to keep diaspora clients updated. Look for:

Weekly progress reports.
Photo and video updates.
Virtual site walkthroughs when possible.

👉 Prestige Bluestar guarantees weekly remote updates, keeping diaspora families connected at every stage.

5. Ignoring Luxury Standards

Diaspora clients are used to international living standards, but not all Nairobi contractors can deliver. Avoid contractors who:

Lack knowledge of modern designs.
Use substandard fittings.
Dismiss smart home technologies.

Luxury homes in neighborhoods like Muthaiga, Gigiri, and Lavington demand world-class finishes—from smart interiors to spa bathrooms.

6. Overlooking Transparency in Payments

A common mistake is paying large upfront sums without accountability. Protect yourself by:

Avoiding 100% upfront payments.
Requesting payments tied to completed milestones.
Insisting on receipts and documented expenditures.

👉 Prestige Bluestar works on a diaspora-trusted milestone billing system—you pay as you see progress.

7. Forgetting After-Sales Support

Renovation doesn’t end at project handover. Issues like plumbing, finishes, or smart systems may need adjustments. A reliable contractor:

Offers warranties.
Provides after-sales support.
Remains accessible long after handover.

👉 Prestige Bluestar ensures ongoing after-care and warranty support, giving diaspora families long-term peace of mind.

How Prestige Bluestar Solves Diaspora Challenges

As an award-winning interior design and renovation company, we have built systems that specifically cater to diaspora clients:

Transparent Contracts & BoQs – No hidden costs.
Milestone Billing – Payments tied to progress.
Weekly Remote Updates – Full visibility while abroad.
Luxury Standards – Kitchens, bathrooms, wardrobes, and interiors that meet global expectations.
Award-Winning Reputation – Recognized as Kenya’s Top Interior Design Brand 2025.

📞 +254 714 444 4516 | +254 745 730 042
📧 info@prestigebluestar.com
📍 Westlands, Nairobi – Muthithi Road