The security deposit law that trips up more Massachusetts landlords than any other — explained completely in plain English.
M.G.L. Chapter 186, Section 15B is 9 pages of dense legal language. This guide translates every requirement into clear steps with exact deadlines, real-dollar consequences, and ready-to-use checklists. Whether you're onboarding a new tenant or returning a deposit at move-out, this guide tells you exactly what to do and when.
9 sections covering everything:
- The Basics — maximum deposit, what you can and cannot collect at move-in
- Receipt & Holding Requirements — the 30-day receipt deadline, escrow account rules, Statement of Condition
- Annual Interest — 5% rule, how to pay it, interest calculation worksheet
- What You Can Deduct — the only 3 permissible deductions, plus a full normal wear & tear vs. damage comparison table with 10 real examples each
- Move-Out & Return — the 30-day return deadline, itemized statement requirements, day-by-day timeline
- Triple Damages — every violation that triggers it, with real dollar exposure examples
- Last Month's Rent — how it differs from the security deposit, interest obligations, the combined account question answered, two-account setup recommendation
- Compliance Checklists — move-in, annual interest, and move-out checklists ready to print and use
- Quick Reference — every deadline and consequence in one table, full statute index
Built for: Massachusetts landlords who want to stop guessing and start complying.
Instant download. PDF + editable Word included. Not legal advice — but the next best thing.