Long-Term Apartment Rental
Renting an apartment for a long-term stay in Morocco is ideal for families, workers, expatriates, and anyone seeking residential stability.
What is a long-term apartment rental in Morocco?
A long-term rental in Morocco refers to a residential lease signed for several months or years (usually 12 months or more), providing stability and security for tenants as well as legal guarantees for landlords. It is generally formalized through a written lease agreement.
Steps to rent a long-term apartment
- Define your budget and criteria (location, size, furnished or unfurnished)
- Search for reliable listings on portals like Masaken.ma
- Visit multiple apartments
- Sign a detailed written lease agreement
- Pay the security deposit and first month's rent
- Conduct the move-in inspection
Tenant rights and obligations
Tenants are entitled to decent housing and must respect the lease terms, pay rent on time, maintain the property, and return it in good condition at the end of the lease. Modifications to the property require the landlord's written consent.
Landlord rights and obligations
Landlords must provide a habitable apartment, carry out structural repairs, and respect the terms of the lease. Rent cannot be increased arbitrarily without a clause in the contract.
Average rent for long-term apartments
Long-term rental prices in Morocco vary by city, size, property standard, and condition. In Casablanca, long-term apartments typically rent between approximately 7,000 MAD and over 12,000 MAD per month depending on the neighborhood and amenities. Marrakech and Rabat have similar ranges, with more affordable options on the outskirts.
Required documents for a long-term rental
Landlords may request the following for a long-term lease in Morocco:
- Copy of national ID card or passport
- Proof of income or employment certificate
- Check or bank transfer for security deposit
- Full contact details of the tenant
Long-term lease: key points
A long-term lease should be written and clearly specify: identities of the parties, property description, rent amount, security deposit, lease duration, rent revision, and other conditions. It provides legal protection for both parties.
- Lease duration
- Monthly rent in Moroccan Dirhams
- Payment terms
- Security deposit
- Utilities and responsibilities
- Termination procedures
Security deposit for long-term rental
In Morocco, landlords usually request a security deposit equivalent to 1 or 2 months' rent. It must be returned at the end of the lease after the move-out inspection, provided there are no damages or unpaid rent.
How rent is set and revised
Rent is freely negotiated between parties, but revisions can only occur according to lease clauses. Typically, rent can be revised every 3 years within legally defined limits.
Costs to anticipate for a long-term rental
In addition to rent, consider:
- Security deposit
- Agency fees (usually equivalent to one month's rent)
- Utilities: water, electricity, internet, and condominium fees
Furnished vs unfurnished long-term rental
The choice between furnished or unfurnished apartments depends on your personal situation, budget, and intended duration.
- Furnished: more expensive but ready to move in
- Unfurnished: cheaper and more customizable
Long-term rentals for expatriates and non-residents
Expatriates can rent long-term apartments in Morocco without major restrictions. It is strongly recommended to formalize the lease in writing and verify all clauses, especially regarding insurance and rent obligations.
Practical tips for a successful long-term rental
- Visit several apartments before deciding
- Check the move-in inspection with photos and signatures
- Prefer clear written contracts
- Pay via traceable methods (bank transfer, check)
- Compare prices by neighborhood
Common mistakes to avoid in long-term rental
- Signing without reading the contract
- Not negotiating the rent
- Skipping the move-in inspection
- Paying without written proof
- Ignoring utilities not included
FAQ – Long-Term Apartment Rental
What is the typical duration of a long-term lease in Morocco?
A long-term lease usually lasts 12 months or more, renewable by agreement between tenant and landlord.
Can I negotiate the rent?
Yes, rent is negotiable before signing, especially based on duration and apartment amenities.
Do I have to pay a security deposit?
Yes, it is common to pay a security deposit equivalent to 1 or 2 months' rent.
Are utilities (water, electricity) included?
This depends on the lease: some rentals include utilities, others do not – check before signing.
Can I leave the apartment before the lease ends?
Yes, but you must respect the termination conditions in the contract (usually 1–3 months' notice).
Can the landlord increase the rent during the lease?
No, rent can only be increased if the contract allows it and according to legal regulations.