How to Write a Lease Agreement in Morocco in 2026
Aqarrati Team
Rental Management Experts in Morocco
A lease agreement in Morocco is a written contract between a landlord and a tenant that governs the rental of a property under Law 67-12 on residential leases. It must state the identity of both parties, a description of the property, the rent amount, the lease duration, and the termination conditions. Without a valid written contract, a landlord cannot legally increase the rent or evict the tenant. Digital platforms like Aqarrati generate compliant contracts in minutes, available in Arabic, French, and English.
What are the mandatory clauses in a Moroccan lease?
Law 67-12 on rental relations requires that any written lease agreement include the following information — failing which disputes become extremely difficult to resolve:
- Full identity of landlord and tenant (name, national ID number, address)
- Precise property description: address, floor area, floor number, apartment number
- Monthly rent amount in figures and in words
- Start date and duration of the lease (typically 1 year, renewable)
- Security deposit amount (typically 1 to 2 months' rent)
- Charges breakdown: water, electricity, maintenance of common areas
- Termination conditions and notice period
- Signatures of both parties, dated and handwritten
What is the legal duration of a residential lease in Morocco?
There is no legally mandated minimum duration for a residential lease in Morocco. In practice, leases run for 12 months and renew automatically by tacit agreement. A landlord who does not wish to renew must serve notice by registered mail with at least 3 months' notice. A tenant may terminate with 1 month's notice unless otherwise specified in the contract.
What is the legal security deposit amount?
Moroccan law sets no cap on the security deposit. By convention, it equals 1 or 2 months' rent. The deposit must be returned within 30 days of the tenant handing back the keys, minus any repair costs justified by an agreed property inspection report. Unjustified withholding is grounds for legal action.
How to increase rent legally?
A rent increase is only possible at the end of the lease, with 3 months' written notice. It may not exceed a ceiling set by decree — currently indexed to the consumer price index. Any automatic increase clause must be explicitly written into the contract. Without a written clause, no unilateral increase is legally enforceable.
Lease in Arabic or French: which is valid?
| Criterion | Arabic | French |
|---|---|---|
| Official language | Yes | Legally recognized |
| Enforceability in court | Primary reference | Valid with translation |
| Common use | Very widespread | Standard in agencies |
| Aqarrati recommendation | Primary version | Secondary version |
Both languages are legally valid. In the event of a dispute before a Moroccan court, the Arabic version is generally treated as the primary reference. Aqarrati automatically generates contracts in both Arabic and French.
Frequently asked questions
Is a verbal lease valid in Morocco?
A verbal lease is legally recognized but very difficult to enforce in court. Without a written record, the landlord cannot prove the agreed rent amount or the termination conditions. A written contract is strongly recommended.
Does a lease need to be registered?
Registration with the tax authorities is not mandatory for residential leases, but it is advisable. It gives the contract a certified date and can serve as evidence in a dispute.
What if the tenant refuses to sign?
If the tenant refuses to sign before moving in, the landlord can withhold the keys. If the tenant is already in occupation, the landlord must issue a formal notice and then pursue legal action.
Is subletting allowed in Morocco?
Subletting is prohibited without the landlord's written consent. Any unauthorized subletting is grounds for lease termination.
How to draw up a property inspection report?
The inspection report must be prepared jointly at entry and exit. It describes the condition of each room, appliance, and installation. It must be signed by both parties and attached to the lease.
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