PSA: Moving day is coming, don't put up with landlord bullshit when it comes to your security deposit. Know the law, it is very tenant friendly.
If you are moving in or moving out you should know your rights as they apply to your security deposit. So many landlords blatantly ignore the law and their failure to follow the law can result in any of the following; forfeit any right to withhold any of the deposit, force them to immediately return the deposit to you (at beginning of lease no need to wait to the end) and even award you triple damages and attorney fees.
For those moving in or renewing a lease you will be able to demand the return of your deposit thirty days after your lease is signed if landlord fails to put in escrow and supply account info (wouldn't do this if you want to renew next year : ) Also can demand return if they include clauses in lease that contradict the law.
AI generated:
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B, landlords immediately forfeit the right to retain a security deposit if they fail to properly escrow funds, document damages with sworn statements, include illegal lease terms, or transfer deposits upon property sale. Mandatory triple damages are triggered when a landlord violates statutory obligations regarding escrow, property transfers, or fails to return the deposit within 30 days of lease termination. Read the full text of the statute at malegislature.gov.
I think sections 3,6, and 7 are most relevant.
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/mass-general-laws-c186-ss-15b