Terms of Service
Last updated: April 9, 2026
1. Introduction
Welcome to Patakeja ("we," "our," or "us"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of the Patakeja platform, including our website, mobile applications, and services (collectively, the "Platform").
By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our Platform.
2. Definitions
"Student" refers to any individual seeking accommodation through our Platform.
"Landlord" refers to property owners or managers listing accommodations on our Platform.
"Agent" refers to verified real estate professionals representing landlords.
"Booking" refers to a confirmed reservation of accommodation through our Platform.
"Service Fee" refers to the commission charged for successful transactions.
3. User Accounts
To use certain features of the Platform, you must create an account. You agree to:
- Provide accurate, current, and complete information during registration
- Maintain and promptly update your account information
- Keep your password secure and confidential
- Be responsible for all activities that occur under your account
- Notify us immediately of any unauthorized use of your account
4. Landlord & Agent Verification
All landlords and agents must complete our verification process before listing properties:
- Submit valid government-issued identification
- Provide KRA PIN certificate (for Kenyan users)
- Submit proof of property ownership or management authorization
- Undergo background verification by our team
We reserve the right to reject or remove any listing that does not meet our verification standards.
5. Booking & Payments
5.1 Payment Processing: All payments are processed securely through M-Pesa STK Push or other approved payment methods.
5.2 Service Fees: A service fee applies to all successful bookings. Current rates are:
- Student/tenant bookings: [X]% booking fee
- Landlord payouts: [Y]% commission on successful bookings
5.3 Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are subject to our refund policy as outlined in each listing's terms.
5.4 Escrow: Funds are held in escrow until the tenant confirms successful move-in.
6. Prohibited Activities
You agree not to:
- Provide false or misleading information
- List properties you do not own or have authority to rent
- Engage in discriminatory practices
- Use the Platform for illegal purposes
- Attempt to circumvent our payment system
- Harass, abuse, or harm other users
- Interfere with the Platform's security features
7. Content & Listings
By submitting content to the Platform:
- You grant us a non-exclusive license to use, display, and promote your content
- You warrant that you have all necessary rights to the content
- You agree that we may moderate or remove content that violates our policies
8. Dispute Resolution
8.1 Internal Resolution: We encourage users to first attempt to resolve disputes amicably. Our support team is available to mediate.
8.2 Formal Dispute: If internal resolution fails, parties may escalate through our formal dispute resolution process.
8.3 Legal Action: These Terms are governed by the laws of Kenya. Any legal action shall be brought in the courts of Kenya.
9. Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Patakeja shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses.
10. Modifications to Terms
We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting. Your continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.
11. Contact Information
If you have any questions about these Terms, please contact us: