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Tenancy, Rent & Eviction in Tunisia: Your Rights (2026)

By HAQQ Research · · 7 min read · Mena

Tunisia: residential leases under the COC (Arts. 727–804), no general rent control, court-only eviction (Art. 796), and old protected tenancies (Law 76-35).

Ordinary Tunisian residential leases are freely contracted under the COC — there is no general rent control (reform proposals are pending). Eviction requires a court decision (COC Art. 796 grounds: misuse, damage, non-payment); non-payment runs through a 15-day formal demand then a fast-track action en référé. Month-to-month leases need ~1 month's notice (Art. 792). Old protected tenancies (pre-1954 buildings) need 6 months' notice. Deposit norm is 1–2 months.

FAQ

Is there rent control in Tunisia?

No general rent control for ordinary leases (rent is freely contracted under the COC); control applies to old protected tenancies under Law 76-35. Regulation proposals remain unenacted.

How is a non-paying tenant evicted in Tunisia?

By a 15-day formal demand, then a fast-track action before the interim-measures judge (~2 months), and only by a court decision (COC Art. 796).

What is the security deposit in Tunisia?

Typically 1–2 months (a 2-month cap is cited by practice), returned at lease end after deduction of established arrears and damages.