Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Massachusetts

Security Deposits

I had a roommate who had a verbal agreemement with me to live in my arpartment and pay rent for a one year lease. He told me that if he were to move out early he would be responsible for finding a new roommate or he would pay rent until he was able to. Half way through the lease he moved out and did not find a new roommate or pay rent/bills for the month the room was vacant. He now wants his security deposit back. I think he forfited his security deposit because I had to cover his portion of the rent and bills and had to take the responsiblity to find a replacement. Am I right or is he intitled to his security deposit?


Asked on 1/10/07, 3:14 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nicole Reeves Lavallee Reeves Lavallee, P.C.

Re: Security Deposits

A verbal agreement for a set lease term is not valid. The security deposit is for any damages, outstanding utilities and rent. The security deposit must be returned within 30 days or an itemization as to any deductions. You must have completed a statement of conditions at the time the roommate moved in. If you would like to discuss this further please contact my office

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Answered on 1/10/07, 3:30 pm


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