Rental Contract in Morocco
A rental contract, also called a residential lease agreement, is a mandatory written agreement regulated by Law 67-12. It defines the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants, requires a property inspection, limits the security deposit, and regulates rent revision.
What is a rental contract in Morocco?
A rental contract is a legal document in which a property owner leases a property to a tenant in exchange for rent. According to Law 67-12, this contract is mandatory for all residential or professional leases.
Which law governs leases in Morocco?
Leases are governed by Law No. 67-12 on residential and professional leases. This law ensures secure rental relationships by setting clear rules on lease duration, rent payment, property inspection, and termination.
Is a residential lease contract mandatory?
Yes. A residential lease contract must be written. Without a written contract, parties face difficulties proving terms in case of disputes, especially regarding rent, duration, or eviction.
What must a rental contract in Morocco include?
A rental contract compliant with Law 67-12 must include the parties' identities, property description, rent amount, lease duration, security deposit, and an attached property inspection report. These elements are essential for the contract's validity.
Property inspection: is it mandatory?
Yes. A property inspection is legally required under Law 67-12. It must be conducted at tenant move-in and move-out, signed by both parties, and attached to the lease.
What is the legal duration of a lease in Morocco?
Lease duration is freely set by the parties but is generally one year renewable for residential leases. The duration must be clearly stated in the contract.
Security deposit: what does Law 67-12 say?
According to Law 67-12, the security deposit usually cannot exceed two months' rent. It must be returned after the move-out inspection, minus any justified repairs.
Rent revision in Morocco
Rent revision is not automatic. It can only occur after a minimum period and must be specified in the rental contract. Any abusive increase is prohibited by law.
Tenant obligations in Morocco
Tenants must pay rent on time, use the property as intended, maintain the leased property, and comply with lease terms. Failure to do so may lead to lease termination.
Landlord obligations in Morocco
Landlords must provide a decent property, ensure peaceful enjoyment, carry out major repairs, and issue rent receipts according to Law 67-12.
Subleasing: is it allowed in Morocco?
Subleasing is prohibited without the landlord's written permission. Violations may result in immediate lease termination.
How to terminate a rental contract in Morocco?
A rental contract can be terminated at the lease term, with legal notice, for non-payment of rent, or for serious breach, in strict compliance with Law 67-12.
Notice period for terminating a lease in Morocco
Notice periods depend on lease terms, typically one to three months. Failure to respect notice may lead to disputes in court.
Written lease vs verbal lease: what's the difference?
A written lease provides full legal protection under Law 67-12, whereas a verbal lease makes proving rent, duration, and obligations difficult. Courts strongly favor written leases in disputes.
Rental contract summary
| Element | Rule under Law 67-12 |
|---|---|
| Written contract | Mandatory |
| Property inspection | Mandatory at move-in and move-out |
| Security deposit | Maximum 2 months' rent |
| Lease duration | Flexible (usually 1 year renewable) |
| Rent revision | Regulated by law |
| Termination | With notice or court decision |
Common mistakes to avoid in rental contracts
Many rental disputes arise from avoidable mistakes, such as missing a written contract, omitting the property inspection, setting an excessive security deposit, or terminating without proper legal procedure under Law 67-12.
FAQ - Morocco Rental Contract
Is every lease in Morocco automatically subject to Law 67-12?
Yes. All residential leases are automatically governed by Law 67-12, even if not explicitly mentioned in the contract.
Is a property inspection mandatory in Morocco?
Yes. Property inspections are mandatory at tenant move-in and move-out according to Law 67-12.
Can a tenant be evicted without a court order in Morocco?
No. All evictions must follow legal judicial procedures.
Does a lease need to be registered?
Registration is not always mandatory but is strongly recommended to legally secure the rental contract.
Can one rent without a written contract?
No. Renting without a written residential lease exposes both parties to significant legal risks.