In Morocco, the lease of a warehouse or industrial unit is governed by Law No. 49-16, which grants the tenant a right of renewal. Seven clauses decide everything: term and notice, rent and review, allocation of charges, works and inventory, permitted use, deposit (two to three months' rent) and insurance.
Commercial leases in Morocco are governed by law 49-16, which protects the tenant's business asset while framing the owner's rights. The security of both sides lives in the drafting.
The pillars of law 49-16
- Written lease required — the law applies to written leases; demand one, whatever the local practice;
- Right to renewal — after two years of occupation the tenant builds a right to renewal, and eviction without cause opens compensation;
- Rent revision — capped by the revision framework (order of magnitude: 10% every three years for commercial premises, per law 07-03);
- Termination — notice and formalities are strict; missed steps invalidate the procedure.
Clauses to negotiate line by line
- Destination — describe the activity broadly enough to evolve;
- Charges and taxes — who pays maintenance, major works (structure vs fittings), taxe de services communaux;
- Works and restitution — authorisations, ownership of improvements, state of restitution;
- Deposit and guarantees — amount and restitution conditions;
- Sub-letting and assignment — essential if you may restructure.
Have the draft reviewed by a professional before signing — and check the building itself against our technical checklist. Available units: warehouses to rent.
Frequently asked questions
Which law governs commercial leases in Morocco?
Law No. 49-16 on leases of buildings or premises for commercial, industrial or craft use. It protects the tenant with a right of renewal and leaves wide room for negotiation.
How much deposit for a rented warehouse?
Moroccan practice is generally two to three months' rent. State the conditions and the refund deadline in the lease.
Who pays for roof maintenance and fire compliance?
Nothing is automatic: a charge-allocation table attached to the lease must say so, otherwise disputes arise at the first major incident.
Is an inventory needed for an industrial unit?
Yes, jointly signed and with dated photos: slab, waterproofing, sectional doors, electrical installations. It is the basis of any discussion at the end of the lease.
Sources and verification
- Law 49-16 on commercial leases (2016)
- Law 07-03 on commercial rent revision
- Ministry of Justice — commercial jurisdictions
- Professional legal advice recommended before signature
Regulations evolve: have your situation confirmed by the competent authority or an advisor (lawyer, notary, accountant) before any commitment.
Last updated: 1 August 2026 — Hangar Maroc.