Massachusetts Security Deposit Laws 2026
Here's what Massachusetts law says about security deposit returns, deadlines, and penalties. All information is sourced from MGL c.186 § 15B.
Return Deadline
30 calendar days
from move-out date to return your deposit
Penalty for Violations
Up to 3x your deposit amount
Requires a finding of bad faith by the landlord.
If the landlord violates the deadline, they may forfeit ALL right to withhold any portion of your deposit.
Deposit Cap
Maximum security deposit: 1 month rent
Itemization Requirements
- Itemized statement required: Yes
- Itemization deadline: 30 days
- Receipts required: Yes
Interest Requirements
Interest on your deposit is required (rate varies).
Statute of Limitations
- Written lease: 6 years
- Oral lease: 6 years
Small Claims Court
Maximum claim: $7,000
Attorney fee shifting available — you may recover attorney fees if you win.
Primary Statute
Important Exceptions & Edge Cases
MGL c.186 § 15B(2)(c): Landlord must provide signed Statement of Condition within 10 days of tenancy start. Must list all existing damage. Tenant has 15 days to review and return. Failure to provide = landlord cannot deduct for pre-existing damage. This is one of the most commonly violated requirements.
MGL c.186 § 15B(3): Deposit MUST be in separate interest-bearing account at a Massachusetts bank, under tenant's name and SSN. Must provide receipt with bank name, address, account number within 30 days. Failure to properly hold deposit = automatic 3x penalty + forfeiture. Credit unions do NOT qualify as 'banks.'
MGL c.186 § 15B(4): Itemized list of damages must be signed UNDER PAINS AND PENALTIES OF PERJURY. Must include detailed descriptions, repair estimates, bills, or receipts. Failure to include the perjury clause = defective notice = forfeiture.
Think your landlord violated Massachusetts law?
Generate a demand letter that cites MGL c.186 § 15B and puts your landlord on notice.
This is not legal advice. Reclaim provides legal information and document generation tools. The information on this page is sourced from MGL c.186 § 15B and is current as of August 1, 2025. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.