Moovproof

Massachusetts · MA

In Massachusetts, a landlord must return a security deposit within 30 calendar days.

Return deadline
30 calendar days
Itemized statement
Required
Move-in condition list
Required of the landlord
Maximum deposit
1 month's rent
Interest on deposit
Required

If the landlord withholds in bad faith

Treble (3x) damages of the deposit amount plus 5% interest, court costs, and attorney's fees for violations such as failure to provide statement of condition, escrow, or timely itemized return

Clock runs from end of possession/occupancy, not the lease document date. Statement of condition mandatory within 10 days of tenancy start; tenant may dispute within 15 days. Interest 5%/yr or actual bank rate if lower, paid annually and at termination.

Check your deadlineDraft a demand letter

Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B · source · verified 2026-07-10

General information, not legal advice. Statutes change and local rules vary — check your lease and your local law, or consult a tenant attorney or legal aid.