Everything You Need to Know About Rental Deposits in Morocco
Aqarrati Team
Rental Management Experts in Morocco
A rental deposit in Morocco refers to any financial guarantee provided by the tenant to cover the risk of unpaid rent or damages. It can take three forms: the security deposit (a sum paid at lease signing), a personal guarantee (a third party's commitment to pay in case of default), or a bank guarantee (a guarantee issued by a bank). Moroccan law sets no cap on the security deposit amount, but convention fixes it at 1 or 2 months' rent. The deposit must be returned within 30 days of the tenant handing back the keys.
The security deposit: how it works and the amount
The security deposit is the most common form of rental security in Morocco. Paid at lease signing, it is held by the landlord for the duration of the tenancy. It cannot be used to pay ongoing rent unless the tenant expressly agrees in writing. At the end of the lease, the landlord has 30 days to return it, minus repair costs evidenced by an agreed property inspection report.
The personal guarantor: conditions and obligations
A guarantor is an individual or legal entity who undertakes to pay rent and charges if the tenant defaults. In Moroccan practice, a landlord may require a guarantor when the tenant cannot demonstrate sufficient income (typically 3 times the monthly rent). The guarantor's commitment must be formalized in a signed guarantee agreement specifying the maximum guaranteed amount and the duration.
Comparison of deposit types
| Type | Who pays? | Amount | Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security deposit | Tenant | 1 to 2 months' rent | 30 days after handover |
| Personal guarantee | Guarantor (third party) | Variable | N/A — ongoing commitment |
| Bank guarantee | Tenant's bank | Defined by the bank | At end of lease |
Valid grounds for withholding the deposit
- Unpaid rent at move-out: the landlord may retain the equivalent amount
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear: supported by quotes or invoices
- Unpaid charges: water, electricity, condo fees
- Cleaning costs if the property is returned in an abnormal state
What to do if the landlord does not return the deposit?
If the landlord fails to return the deposit within 30 days and does not provide supporting documents, the tenant can send a formal notice by registered mail, then apply to the court for the return plus damages.
Frequently asked questions
Can the landlord require more than 2 months' deposit?
Legally, nothing prevents a deposit exceeding 2 months, but it is unusual and may be considered excessive. In practice, 1 to 2 months is the Moroccan norm.
Does the security deposit earn interest for the tenant?
No. Moroccan law does not require landlords to pay interest on deposits. Some contracts may include an interest clause, but this is very rare.
How to prove the security deposit was paid?
Payment should be stated in the lease with the exact amount. A signed receipt from the landlord is recommended. A bank transfer also leaves a documentary trail.
Can a guarantor withdraw after signing?
No. Once the guarantee agreement is signed, the guarantor is bound for the stated duration and amount. They cannot unilaterally withdraw.
Does Aqarrati track the security deposit?
Yes. Aqarrati records the deposit amount in the tenant file and generates alerts at lease end to ensure return within the legal deadline.
Manage your properties with Aqarrati
Compliant contracts, payment tracking, and automatic reminders — all in one dashboard.
Try for free