Massachusetts security deposit demand letter
Create a Massachusetts security deposit demand letter using the residential-deposit rules verified July 24, 2026. The form checks the facts that control statutory coverage, the return clock, itemization, notice, and any qualified remedy before it inserts state-law text.
What law governs a residential security deposit in Massachusetts?
M.G.L. C. 186, § 15B. Note that § 15B was amended by St. 2025, c. 9, §§ 54–55, effective August 1, 2025. The citation is used only after the factual scope questions confirm that the ordinary residential rule applies. Verified July 24, 2026. Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B.
Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B · Verified July 24, 2026
When is a security deposit or accounting due in Massachusetts?
30 days, but the clock-start event is tenancy-type dependent: for a tenancy at will, 30 days after the termination of occupancy; for a valid written lease, 30 days after the end of the tenancy as specified in the lease. Verified July 24, 2026. Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4), (6)(b), (6)(e).
Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4), (6)(b), (6)(e) · Verified July 24, 2026
What itemization or documentation is required in Massachusetts?
Within 30 days, Massachusetts requires a sworn itemized list describing each damage and necessary repair in precise detail, plus written cost evidence such as estimates, bills, invoices, or receipts. A landlord generally may not deduct for damage already recorded at move-in unless it was repaired and later damaged again by the tenant. Verified July 24, 2026. Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4)(iii).
Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4)(iii) · Verified July 24, 2026
What remedy may apply if a Massachusetts landlord does not comply?
Massachusetts distinguishes forfeiture from treble damages. Several § 15B(6) violations forfeit the landlord’s right to retain the deposit or counterclaim. Treble damages, 5% interest, costs, and reasonable attorney fees apply only to the specified account, transfer, or return failures in § 15B(7), not merely to a late itemized list. Verified July 24, 2026. Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(2)(a), (3)(a), (6), (7); M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(6)–(7).
Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(2)(a), (3)(a), (6), (7); M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(6)–(7) · Verified July 24, 2026
Does Massachusetts require a demand, delivery method, or prescribed form?
None. § 15B prescribes no service method for a tenant's demand. No prescribed form or mandatory wording for a tenant's demand. § 15B does prescribe mandatory language elsewhere. Verified July 24, 2026. Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B; M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(2)(c).
Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B; M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(2)(c) · Verified July 24, 2026
M.G.L. C. 186, § 15B. Note that § 15B was amended by St. 2025, c. 9, §§ 54–55, effective August 1, 2025.