Index

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B

Summary

A highly specific law governing security deposits, requiring they be held in a separate account and providing for triple damages if handled incorrectly.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Tenants must receive a receipt within 30 days of paying a deposit.
  • 02.
    Landlords must provide a 'Statement of Condition' detailing any existing damage to the unit.
  • 03.
    The deposit must be returned within 30 days of the end of the tenancy.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Treble damages (three times the amount of the deposit) plus interest.
  • 02.
    Mandatory payment of the tenant's attorney's fees if the landlord loses in court.

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