Massachusetts law
Landlord & Tenant Laws in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts landlord-tenant law includes strict statewide rules governing residential security deposits, escrow and documentation requirements, the deadline for returning the deposit after a tenancy ends, and strong statutory remedies for wrongful withholding.
Last verified: 2026-04-07
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State law
Filing Requirements
A tenant should preserve the statement of condition, move-in records, and any receipts or communications because Massachusetts ties many deposit rights to strict documentation and procedural requirements.
State law
Key Massachusetts Statutes
In Massachusetts, a landlord generally must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, together with any required interest and an itemized list of lawful deductions supported by proper documentation.
If a landlord fails to follow Massachusetts security-deposit rules, the tenant may be able to recover the deposit and, in the right case, treble damages, interest, costs, and attorney’s fees.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.
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