How to Recover a Debt in Kenya: Demand Letters, Small Claims Court and Beyond
Unpaid invoices and loans can cripple a business. This practical guide shows how to recover debts lawfully and efficiently in Kenya.
Read article
Practice area
Debt Recovery & Collection
Get Paid What You Are Owed
Firm, lawful and cost-effective recovery of unpaid debts for businesses, SACCOs, lenders and individuals.
Unpaid invoices and defaulted loans strain cash flow and relationships. Our debt recovery team acts quickly and professionally to recover what you are owed, choosing the most cost-effective route for each debt — from a well-drafted demand letter to court action and enforcement.
We act for SACCOs, microfinance institutions, landlords, suppliers, schools and individuals, and we always pursue recovery lawfully and respectfully, in line with the Constitution, the Civil Procedure Act and consumer protection law.
Our recovery process
- Review of the debt, documentation and the debtor's assets
- Formal demand letters and structured repayment negotiations
- Claims in the Small Claims Court, Magistrates' Courts or High Court
- Statutory demands and insolvency proceedings where appropriate
- Execution of judgments — attachment, garnishee orders and auctioneers
How we can help
Demand Letters
Formal, persuasive demands that resolve most debts without litigation.
Negotiated Settlements
Structured repayment plans that preserve business relationships.
Small Claims Court
Fast, low-cost recovery for claims within the court's limits.
Litigation
Suing for larger or disputed debts in the appropriate court.
Enforcement of Judgments
Attachment, garnishee orders and working with licensed auctioneers.
Portfolio Recovery
Bulk recovery services for SACCOs, lenders and landlords.
What I liked most about the firm is that you can tell they are not just doing it for the money, will refer you to another person if your problem is not what they specialise in.
Explains to you the law in a way you understand.
Frequently asked questions
A formal demand letter from an advocate. It sets a deadline, signals seriousness and often results in payment without going to court.
Claims based on contract must generally be filed within six years of the debt falling due under the Limitation of Actions Act.
Where the court rules in your favour it will usually award costs and interest against the debtor.
Related insights
Free initial conversation
Facing a legal issue? Let's talk it through.
Book a consultation with our advocates in Juja — in person, by phone or on WhatsApp. Clear advice, transparent fees.