Massachusetts security deposit statement 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.

• 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
• 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)
• 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
• 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)

What is in it

• Itemized deductionsDeduction, Why it is charged, Supported by, Amount
• Move-out conditionTwo to four sentences from the notes on the unit's condition at move-out compared with move-in, including anything noted as normal wear and tear and not charged, and photos if the notes mention them. Never state amounts.
• Refund and questionsHow the refund is paid or the balance should be paid, and where (from the notes, such as a check mailed to the forwarding address), and that the tenant may contact the landlord with questions. Never state amounts: the accounting table shows them.

Rules last reviewed October 23, 2026. Read the full Massachusetts security deposit statement requirements.