The contract and the rent
- The lease must be in writing, with a check-in inventory; otherwise, proof is harder for both landlord and tenant.
- The rent is freely agreed; reviews are regulated (8% every three years for residential use, 10% for professional use, unless otherwise agreed).
- The security deposit may not exceed two months' rent and must be returned within one month of the premises being handed back, less any damage.
- Major repairs are the landlord's responsibility; routine maintenance is the tenant's.
End of the lease and unpaid rent
- The landlord may give notice to quit in order to live in the property or house relatives there, to demolish and rebuild, or if the tenant is in breach, subject to the statutory notice period.
- If rent is unpaid, the landlord sends a formal notice; if payment is not made within the deadline, the landlord applies to the president of the Court of First Instance to validate the notice and order eviction.
- The tenant may be granted time to pay if good faith is established and rent is paid during the proceedings.
- Eviction is carried out by a bailiff after service of the judgment; the assistance of the police may be requested.
Practical advice
Landlords: require a registered contract, a detailed inventory and monthly receipts, and do not wait for several months of arrears before acting. Tenants: keep proof of payment, report defects in writing and challenge any irregular notice to quit within the time limits. The firm drafts leases and handles rent recovery and eviction proceedings or the defence against them, before the competent courts.
This guide is provided for general information by Maître Lahfaia Law Firm, Rabat. It is no substitute for advice tailored to your situation; the rules and deadlines mentioned may change.