Index
Massachusetts Security Deposit Law
Summary
One of the strictest security deposit laws in the U.S., requiring specific handling of tenant funds and documentation.
Rights & Rules
- 01.Your deposit must be held in a separate, interest-bearing account in a Massachusetts bank.
- 02.You must receive a 'Statement of Condition' within 10 days of the start of your tenancy.
- 03.Landlords cannot charge more than the first month's rent, last month's rent, security deposit, and a lock/key fee.
Penalties
- 01.Treble damages (three times the deposit amount) for failure to return the deposit or follow escrow rules.
- 02.Immediate return of the entire deposit regardless of damages if specific records weren't kept.
- 03.Payment of the tenant's attorney fees and court costs.
Verified Citations
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