This project intends to look into the foundation requirements of dams i.e. what aspects (conditions of dam foundations and site investigation methods used) are considered before a dam’s foundation can be designed and prepared. It will also encompass the problems encountered on dam foundations during operation and the recommendations there of or remedies implemented to mitigate the risks or possible problems that could affect the stability of a dam foundation and hence the whole structure. This research paper intends to take an analytical approach of the steps followed before deciding on a dam’s foundation. The research will cover a case study of the kiambaa dam looking into the techniques and the steps that were employed during the site investigation of the dam and find out if the methods used were sufficient to provide an adequate informationfor the preparation of the foundation. After which alternative ways will be suggested as to how best a dam foundation can be constructed.The motivation to research on this topic stems from the recent dam failures in kenya during floods resulting in loss of life and property i.e. the patel dam failure in solai, rift valley.