Massachusetts rental inspection report template

Massachusetts rules for this report

These rules are about how and when you report, not the template's fields. Check them before you deliver.

• A landlord who takes a security deposit gives the tenant a separate written statement of the present condition of the premises when the deposit is received, or within ten days after the tenancy begins, whichever is laterMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (c)
• The statement includes a comprehensive listing of any damage then existing in the premises, including violations of the state sanitary or building codes certified by a local board of health or building official or decided by a courtMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (c)
• The statement is signed by the landlord or agent and carries the notice set out in the statute, in twelve-point bold type at the top of the first pageMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (c)
• The tenant returns the statement within fifteen days after receiving it or moving in, whichever is later, signed if it is correct, or with a separate signed list of any damage they believe existsMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (c)
• If the tenant sends a separate list of damage, the landlord returns a copy within fifteen days with either a signed agreement or a clear statement of disagreement attachedMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (c)
• The landlord keeps a record of each deposit, including copies of the statements of condition given to tenants, for two years after the tenancy ends, and shows it to the tenant on requestMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (2) (d)
• Within thirty days after the tenancy ends, the landlord returns the deposit; a deduction for damage needs an itemized list, sworn under the pains and penalties of perjury, describing the damage and the repairs in precise detail, with written evidence of the cost such as estimates, bills, invoices or receiptsMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (4) · Mass.gov, Security deposits and last month's rent
• Nothing is deducted for damage listed in the statement of condition, or in the tenant's separate list signed by the landlord, unless it was later repaired and the new damage is shown to be unrelated and caused by the tenantMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (4)
• Deductions cover a reasonable amount to repair damage caused by the tenant or people under their control, with reasonable wear and tear excludedMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (4) (iii)
• A landlord who does not provide the itemized list within thirty days loses the right to keep any of the deposit, and failing to return the balance due within thirty days can bring damages of three times the deposit, plus interest, court costs and attorney's feesMassachusetts General Laws c. 186, s. 15B (6) and (7) · Mass.gov, Security deposits and last month's rent

What is in it

• Entry and hallwaysWalls and ceiling, Floor, Doors and locks, Lights and switches
• Living and dining areasWalls and ceiling, Floor and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Outlets, lights and switches
• KitchenStove, oven and range hood, Refrigerator and freezer, Dishwasher, Sink, faucet and drain, Counters and cabinets, Walls, ceiling and floor
• BedroomsWalls and ceilings, Floors and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Closets and doors
• BathroomsToilet, Tub, shower, grout and caulking, Sink, vanity and mirror, Exhaust fan, Walls, ceiling and floor
• Laundry and utilityWasher and dryer, Heating, cooling and thermostat, Water heater
• Safety devicesSmoke alarms tested, Carbon monoxide alarms tested, Fire extinguisher
• Exterior, parking and storageBalcony, patio or yard, Parking or garage, Storage
• Keys, fobs and remotesItem, Quantity, Notes

Rules last reviewed October 8, 2026. Read the full Massachusetts rental inspection report requirements.