What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

In Massachusetts, the law requires landlords to return their tenants’ security deposits within 30 days after the tenant moves out. This requirement also includes any interest that has accumulated on the deposit. The landlord must provide a written list of all deductions that have been taken from the security deposit, and must provide the tenant with an itemized receipt. If the landlord has failed to return the security deposit within the 30-day time frame, the tenant may sue for double the amount of the security deposit plus attorney’s fees. The landlord must provide a forwarding address to the tenant, or else the tenant may file a claim against the landlord for thrice the security deposit. The landlord is not allowed to keep any amount of the security deposit to cover unpaid rent, and may only take deductions for unpaid rent with an appropriate court order. The landlord is also not allowed to use the tenant’s security deposit to cover the cost of repairs due to ordinary wear and tear of the rental property. The only exception to this rule is if the tenant has caused the damage. In general, Massachusetts law provides tenants with certain protections when it comes to the return of their security deposits. It is important that tenants understand their rights and obligations under the law, so that they can protect their security deposit when they move out.

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What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

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