Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Massachusetts
security depost law
If a LL doesn't ask a tenant to sign any forms of rental agreement, she just asks tenant to give deposit and pay rent in cash without giving a receipt. Is it a violation against the law - ''LL must open an escrow bank account for the tenant's deposit and provide tenant a copy''? In other words, Does the law applies to all type of tenancy?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: security depost law
Yes, the security deposit law applies to all types of tenancies where a security deposit is taken. And violations may entitle you to recover trble damages and attorney's fees.
Re: security depost law
This is an absolute violate of law if you are a residential tenant. You may demand the return of the security deposit in writing as a starting point.
Re: security depost law
Landlord is required to give a receipt and disclose the whereabouts of the deposit, which must be held in an interest baring account.