security deposit Question

[fburke]

What is the name of your state? MA


How long to I have to return a security deposit to a tenant that is moving.. I do not want to give this back to her until I take control of the unit including keys. I think she think she is going to get this before she moves to apply towards her new apartment.

I just want to cover my a** there was an issue with this tenant a few months ago with a small fire that has been resolved through the courts and settlement has been made…but I think she is still a little pissed and doesn’t wan to renew.

I do have it in a separate account so that is not an issue. I just want to make sure she doesn’t leave me a mess.

Thanks

 

[Gail in Georgia]

http://www.rentlaw.com/dep/massdeposit.htm

In your state, a security deposit (minus any funds held for damage done to the residence, rent owed, etc.) must be returned to the renter within 30 days of terminating the rental contract.

The renter doesn't get to have this deposit until after they have vacated the premises, given you the keys and you've had a chance to assess the condition of the residence.

Tough noogies on her wanting this before she moves out.

Gail

 

[johnd]

http://www.rentlaw.com/dep/massdeposit.htm

In your state, a security deposit (minus any funds held for damage done to the residence, rent owed, etc.) must be returned to the renter within 30 days of terminating the rental contract.

The renter doesn't get to have this deposit until after they have vacated the premises, given you the keys and you've had a chance to assess the condition of the residence.

Tough noogies on her wanting this before she moves out.

Gail

Allow me to extrapolate on your 2nd and 3rd conditions Gail. The rule is 30 days after vacation, not return of keys or assessment of the property for the simple reason often times tenants do not return keys, and the LL may not be able to assess until 31 days after vacation. So, assess any damage promptly, and if they fail to return the keys...charge them (for the keys...or rekeying the locks, whatever the lease stipulates).

 

[johnd]

Wow. Going on 4 years here fburke...and you still don't know the Mass. sd rules? Get the lead out! Just kidding.