Cost Model for Foundation: 3-Bedroom Bungalow

Cost Model for Foundation: 3-Bedroom Bungalow

Assumptions:

  • Bungalow size: ~120 m² (common 3-bedroom footprint)

  • Soil: Typical (not extreme rocky or black-cotton requiring highly deep foundation)

  • Foundation type: Reinforced strip foundation + footing + base slab

  • Material & labour prices in line with 2025 input cost indices

Cost Drivers & Data Points:

  • Construction Input Price Index (CIPI) for Q2 2025 is 119.75, up from 119.05 in Q1. 

  • Cement, steel rebar, and other key materials have moderate increases: e.g., cement index +0.92%, steel/rebars +1.52%. 

  • Labor costs have also grown modestly. 

  • According to the Architectural Association of Kenya, construction cost per m² for standard quality houses has increased significantly. 


đź’µ Estimated Foundation Cost (3-Bedroom Bungalow)

Component Estimated Cost
Excavation & site prep KSh 80,000 – 150,000
Hardcore filling + blinding KSh 120,000 – 200,000
Reinforcement, formwork & concrete (strip footings + slab) KSh 250,000 – 500,000
Misc (curing, water, transport) KSh 40,000 – 100,000

Estimated Total Foundation Cost (2025): KSh 490,000 – 950,000


⚠️ Risks & Sensitivity

  • If the land has poor soil, costs can go beyond the high end due to deeper footings.

  • If steel or cement prices spike further (import cost risk), estimates may be off → margin for error.

  • Labor cost fluctuations: masons, rural vs urban labour rates.

  • Transport cost for materials: affected by fuel costs and distance.

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