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Massachusetts security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Massachusetts, a landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B). Under Massachusetts law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to three times the amount of the deposit.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

30

days for a Massachusetts landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

The landlord must return the deposit, or the balance after lawful deductions, within 30 days after the tenancy ends.

What the landlord must send you

An itemized list of damage, sworn under the pains and penalties of perjury, with written evidence such as estimates, bills, invoices or receipts.

If the landlord misses the deadline

A landlord who doesn't provide the sworn itemized list forfeits the right to keep any portion of the deposit (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(6)).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

A landlord who fails to return the deposit within 30 days owes three times the amount of the deposit, plus 5% interest, court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(7)).

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Did the landlord send you a written, itemized list of deductions?

Massachusetts security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Massachusetts?

The landlord must return the deposit, or the balance after lawful deductions, within 30 days after the tenancy ends.

What must a Massachusetts landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

An itemized list of damage, sworn under the pains and penalties of perjury, with written evidence such as estimates, bills, invoices or receipts.

What happens if a Massachusetts landlord misses the deadline?

A landlord who doesn't provide the sworn itemized list forfeits the right to keep any portion of the deposit (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(6)).

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Massachusetts?

A landlord who fails to return the deposit within 30 days owes three times the amount of the deposit, plus 5% interest, court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(7)).

How do I get my security deposit back in Massachusetts?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 30 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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