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States/Massachusetts/30-Day Rule
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Massachusetts renter guide

Massachusetts 30-Day Security Deposit Return Rule

Section 15B requires the lessor within 30 days after termination of occupancy under a tenancy-at-will or the end of the tenancy under a valid written lease to return the deposit or balance after permitted deductions.

Last reviewed: September 1, 20262 official sources cited
Main deadline30 days

Return and covered damage documentation fit inside this period.

If damages are deducted

The landlord must provide within the 30-day period a detailed sworn list of damages and written evidence of actual or estimated costs such as estimates, bills, invoices or receipts.

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Educational information only. Massachusetts rental rules can depend on the exact tenancy, property, billing model and local enforcement facts. This page does not provide legal advice.

Official sources

Massachusetts LegislatureMassachusetts General Laws c.186 § 15B ↗

Primary law for security-deposit amount, receipts, statement of condition, banking, interest, deductions and 30-day return.

Mass.govSecurity deposits and last month’s rent ↗

Official Massachusetts consumer guidance on deposit limits, banking, interest and move-out deductions.

Related Massachusetts guides

Security Deposit →One-Month Limit →Statement of Condition →Damage Itemization →