In short
Law No. 67-12 governs the letting of homes and professional premises: the form of the lease, the inventory, payment and review of rent, each party's obligations and the conditions for eviction. It seeks a balance between protecting the tenant and the landlord's right to be paid. This is an unofficial explanatory note; only the Arabic text published in the Official Bulletin is authoritative.
Who this law applies to
The law applies to leases of premises used as a home or for professional purposes (for example, a practice of a liberal profession). Commercial, industrial and craft leases are covered by a separate law, Law No. 49-16.
The key rules
- The lease must be in writing and bear a certain date.
- An inventory of the premises is drawn up when the tenant moves in and when they leave.
- The tenant must pay rent and charges on time, use the premises for their intended purpose and not alter them without consent.
- The landlord must deliver the premises in good condition, guarantee quiet enjoyment and carry out major repairs.
- Rent review and eviction are subject to conditions and a procedure set by law: the landlord may not take matters into their own hands.
Key deadlines and figures
- The security deposit may not exceed two months' rent.
- Rent review is regulated, as a rule no more than once every three years and within rates set by law.
- Where rent is unpaid, a prior formal notice is required before starting termination and eviction proceedings.
- A landlord who takes back the premises to live in or demolish them must give notice and, in some cases, pay compensation.
What it means in practice
For landlords, a written lease, a signed inventory and regular rent receipts are the most reliable safeguards in a dispute. Cutting off water or electricity, changing the locks or keeping the tenant's belongings is prohibited.
For tenants, paying against a receipt and keeping proof of payment avoids many disputes. If there is disagreement over repairs or a rent increase, the courts remain available.
Reforms and recent developments
Adopted in 2013, Law No. 67-12 replaced the previous residential lease regime dating from 1980. It is supplemented by the general rules on leasing in the DOC and by Law No. 49-16 for commercial premises.
When to consult a lawyer
In cases of unpaid rent, refusal to vacate, a contested rent review, damage to the premises or a dispute over the return of the deposit. A lawyer can also review a lease before you sign it.
Explanatory note prepared by the firm and unofficial translation. Only the text published in the Official Bulletin is authoritative. The information on this website is general and does not replace legal advice. Every situation requires an analysis of its own facts and documents.