Long-Term Renting in Marrakech: the Tenant's Guide (2026)
Capital Parc · 20 juin 2026 · 2 min read
Lease, deposit, inventory, charges, furnished or unfurnished: everything to check to rent an apartment or villa long-term in Marrakech, as an expat or resident.
In 30 seconds: for a long-term rental in Marrakech, sign a written lease, expect a security deposit (often 1 to 2 months), carry out an inventory of fixtures at move-in, and clarify who pays the charges (building service, water, electricity). Check whether the property is furnished or unfurnished, and confirm the landlord's identity before paying.
Furnished or unfurnished: the first decision
In Marrakech, supply splits between unfurnished rentals (longer commitment, ideal to settle in) and furnished rentals (flexible, popular with expats and nomads). Furnished costs more per month but saves you buying equipment; unfurnished is cheaper over time.
The lease: what it must contain
Insist on a written contract stating: the parties' identities, the property's designation and address, the rent amount and payment date, the term, the security deposit, the split of charges, and the revision and termination conditions (notice period). A clear lease protects tenant and landlord alike.
Deposit and first payments
The security deposit (often one to two months' rent) is returned at the end of the lease, less any damage noted. At move-in, expect to pay: first month + deposit. Make no payment before seeing the property and verifying the landlord's standing (title or management mandate).
The inventory: never skip it
Carry out a detailed move-in inventory, with photos, signed by both parties. It determines the return of your deposit at move-out. Note the condition of walls, fittings, plumbing, and record the meters.
Charges: who pays what
Clarify the split in writing: building service/syndic (common areas, lift, security), water and electricity (meters usually in the tenant's name), internet, municipal services tax. In a residence, ask for the co-ownership charge amount.
Foreign tenant: the right reflexes
No residence permit is required to rent. Prepare an ID and proof of income/guarantor if requested. Favour a traceable payment and a written lease; for a long stay, a local bank account makes rent and charges easier to settle.
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Disclaimer: general information current as of 2026. Practices vary by landlord — have your lease reviewed if in doubt.
FAQ
What deposit is required to rent in Marrakech? Often the equivalent of one to two months' rent, returned at the end of the lease after deducting any damage noted in the inventory.
Do I need a residence permit to rent as a foreigner? No. An ID and, depending on the landlord, proof of income or a guarantor are usually enough.
Who pays the co-ownership charges? To be clarified in the lease. In practice the tenant often pays water, electricity and internet; the syndic split is negotiable and must be in writing.
