i think my old landlord is trying to rip me off

Hi Chris -

You did the right thing to get your rent payments in writing..always a good idea wherever you are, but especially here in Morocco where receipts are not commonplace.

Your landlord is probably out to screw you.   He probably got landed with this d'debilite bill and wants to pass the buck onto you - you are a Westerner after all, and loaded.  Whether you are or not, the bill is now his responsibility regardless, as you have moved out and moved on. 

I don't suppose you signed anything when you moved out, something indicating that he (your landlord)found everthing to be satisfactory, and releasing you from any further liability...?

I would need to see the contract you had with him to be sure (I own a property management business here in the US), but my guess is that this tax should have been part of your overall rent.  Its ridiculous that he is coming after you now, after the fact.

Either way, tread carefully, and try to manage the situation as tactfully as possible...there is a lot of corruption in Morocco, and law is relative.

Good luck!

Tifa

let me know if you need a lawyer My sister in law  will  help out..
you can get a Free advise for first visit....

Normally is the landlord who should pay the Tax, but the fact that you signed a contract will make it difficult for you, regardless to what you have paid for your rent he is obviously dodging the taxes and by agreeing to sign 3000Dirhamms on the contract knowing that you ll be paying 5000 you became an accomplice.