Massachusetts Landlord Tenant Return of Security Deposit Demands
Recently a relative in Massachusetts requested my help in obtaining her security deposit from her previous landlord. Her situation was unique, but the Legal Assistance Corporation of Central Massachusetts offers a site that may be helpful to Massachusetts consumers looking to make a written demand for the return of their security deposit. The site/form allows a user to select up to five reasons for seeking the return of a security deposit.
The site allows users to choose from the following reasons for the return of the security deposit:
1. Landlord didn't return security deposit within 30 days after tenant moved out or give me notice of what he/she was using the security deposit for;2. Landlord didn't put the security deposit in a separate interest-bearing Massachusetts bank account;
3. Landlord didn't give the tenant a written receipt;
4. Landlord did not let the tenant see the security deposit records; or
5. Landlord did not give tenant written notice of bank account number and bank address where deposit is held.
While this list may not apply to all cases, the site was easy to use and may help many. I recommend sending your security deposit demand letter certified mail return receipt requested (so you have proof the letter was sent and received.) If your security deposit is not returned, you may consider filing a small claims action in Massachusetts.
