To choose a good construction company in Tanzania, check that it is registered with the Contractors Registration Board (CRB) in the right class for your project, that qualified engineers will supervise the work, and that it has completed similar projects you can see for yourself. Then compare written quotes based on the same drawings, agree a clear contract and payment schedule, and make sure there is a named person responsible for your site. These ten checks will help you avoid the most common problems.
1. Is the company registered with CRB?
Every contractor carrying out construction works in Tanzania should be registered with the Contractors Registration Board. Ask for the registration certificate and check that it is current. Registration shows the company is recognised, has met minimum requirements and can be held accountable.
2. Is it registered in the right class?
CRB registers contractors in different classes depending on their capacity, and each class can handle projects up to a certain size. A small contractor may be perfect for a house, but not for a large commercial building. Our article on CRB contractor classes explains how this works.
3. Who will actually supervise your site?
Ask who the engineer or site manager will be, and whether they are registered with the Engineers Registration Board. A company with experienced engineers makes better decisions on foundations, concrete and structure.
4. Can you see similar projects?
Ask for a list of completed projects similar to yours, and visit at least one or two. Look at the quality of finishes, and if possible talk to the client about how the project was managed.
5. Does the quote match your drawings?
A good quote is based on your drawings and set out as a bill of quantities, with quantities and rates for each item. A single total on one page tells you very little. Read our guide on how to read a BOQ.
6. Is there a written contract?
Never start without a written contract. It should cover the scope of work, the price, the payment schedule, the programme, who supplies materials, how changes are priced and what happens if work is delayed.
7. Is the payment schedule linked to progress?
Payments should follow completed stages of work, not dates on a calendar. Be careful with any contractor who asks for a very large payment before work starts.
8. How does the company handle safety and quality?
Ask how they manage site safety, quality checks and testing of materials such as concrete. A contractor with written procedures is more likely to deliver consistent work. See our article on construction site safety.
9. How will you receive progress updates?
Agree how often you will receive updates, photos and site meeting minutes. This matters even more if you live outside Dar es Salaam or abroad.
10. Does the company give a defects period?
After handover, a responsible contractor returns to fix defects that appear during an agreed period. Make sure this is written in the contract.
Quick checklist
| Check | What to ask for |
|---|---|
| CRB registration | Current certificate and class |
| Engineers | Names and registration |
| Experience | List of similar projects, site visits |
| Quote | Priced BOQ based on your drawings |
| Contract | Scope, price, programme, changes |
| Payments | Linked to completed stages |
| Safety and quality | Written procedures, testing |
| Reporting | Regular updates and photos |
| After handover | Defects liability period |
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify that a contractor is registered in Tanzania?
Ask for the CRB certificate and check the contractor's details with the Contractors Registration Board.
Should I buy the materials myself?
You can, but it shifts responsibility for quality, quantities and storage to you. Many clients prefer a contractor who supplies materials as part of a clear, itemised price.
What is a fair deposit for a construction contract?
It depends on the project, but the payment schedule should be linked to work completed on site. Avoid paying most of the money before work begins.
Is a design-and-build contractor a good choice?
For many clients it is, because one company handles design, approvals and construction. Read our comparison of design and build vs traditional contracting.
Talk to a contractor you can check
Vika Construction works with ERB-registered engineers on every site and has delivered projects for banks and public institutions across Tanzania. See our projects or get in touch to discuss yours.
