Understanding what is sold off-plan
VEFA stands for sale in a future state of completion (off-plan sale). The Moroccan framework includes specific provisions of the Code of Obligations and Contracts, notably articles 618-1 et seq., as currently applicable. A brochure describes a project; it is not sufficient to establish the scope of commitment. Identify the developer, land, land registry status, permits, plans, specifications and proposed document. Separate contractual specifications, options and marketing visuals. Computer-generated images or CGI renderings must be highlighted as projections. Do not promise that all visible finishes will be delivered without verifying against contract documents. The reservation, preliminary contract and final contract stages must be verified according to the case.
Fictional example
A rendering shows a swimming pool and a fitted kitchen. The specifications provided do not mention them: these items remain to be clarified, even if the vendor presents them as standard.
Visual materials do not replace contractual specifications.
Linking payments to terms and conditions
The payment schedule must be read alongside applicable milestones, proof of progress and guarantees. Do not construct a payment schedule based solely on sales practices or a template from another country. Request the contract document, the conditions for each payment, proof of construction progress and mechanisms provided in case of disputes. Certain reservation or withdrawal rules fall under a specific statutory regime; avoid applying them broadly to all transactions. Have clauses reviewed by the competent professional before presenting their legal effect. An orally announced completion date does not in itself constitute a secure contractual schedule. Your summary must distinguish between announced dates, written commitments, and conditions still to be confirmed.
Fictional example
The sales representative is requesting an instalment because 'construction is progressing'. The relevant question concerns the stage provided for in the document, the corresponding evidence and the payment conditions.
An announced milestone must be cross-referenced against its framework and supporting evidence.
Preparing handover and snags
Anticipate the comparison between specification descriptions, applicable plans and the handed-over state. Organise a physical inspection checklist with competent stakeholders: services, operation, access, delivery documentation and any snags. Distinguish between an observed defect, the developer's explanation and the proposed resolution. Do not draw conclusions regarding overall compliance from a quick visual inspection. Ensure that the professional handling the file clarifies the applicable snagging procedure, timeframes and their effects. Retain dated photographs, document references and communication logs. Receiving a key, a signed document and the completion of formalities are not interchangeable concepts. The adviser facilitates clear information without acting as a substitute for technical or legal expertise.
Fictional example
A finish differs from the specification description. Your note cites the reference, describes the observed discrepancy and requests the planned resolution, rather than accepting an unspecified compensation.
Describe the discrepancy and document its resolution.
Your practical application work
In El Jadida, a development shows a kitchen on its renders, requests an instalment payment and announces an imminent delivery. The specification description and supporting documents are incomplete.
- Your distinction between brochure, specification description and contract
- Questions regarding instalments and warranties
- Your preparation for the handover inspection
Sources and benchmarks
- Adala · Code of Obligations and ContractsReference source for the topic. Scenarios, working methods and durations are educational constructs created by CBE; the source does not certify them.
- Adala · DOC, updated Arabic version published July 2026Updated version identified during official search. Reconcile applicable provisions against current texts; the 2024 French PDF serves as an earlier reading guide.