How much a landlord can charge for a security deposit in Massachusetts, the deadline to return it after move-out, and the statute that controls — verified June 7, 2026.
1 month of rent. Deposit limited to first month's rent; return within 30 days after termination of occupancy. Wrongful withholding can trigger treble damages plus interest and attorney fees.
30 days. Read Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.
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1 month of rent. Deposit limited to first month's rent; return within 30 days after termination of occupancy. Wrongful withholding can trigger treble damages plus interest and attorney fees. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.
30 days. See Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B. The official text is published by the state at https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartII/TitleI/Chapter186/Section15b.
No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.
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