Security Deposits
Maximum deposit
1 month's rent (security deposit) + first + last month + lock change fee
Caps can differ by city or housing type. Always confirm with official sources.
Return deadline
30 days
After move-out. Many states require an itemised statement if deductions are taken.
Penalty for wrongful withholding
3x wrongfully withheld amount + interest + attorney fees
Penalties vary by court and facts. Keep photos, receipts, and written communication.
Small claims limit
$7,000
Most deposit disputes can be handled in small claims depending on the amount.
What can be deducted?
Unpaid rent · Damage beyond normal wear and tear · Excessive cleaning (beyond move-in condition) · Missing items.
What cannot be deducted? Normal wear and tear (faded paint, worn carpet paths, minor scuffs) · Pre-existing damage documented at move-in · Routine turnover costs.
Pro tip: Do a detailed move-in checklist and take timestamped photos/videos. Repeat at move-out.
Evidence wins deposit disputes.
Landlord Entry Notice
Standard entry
Reasonable notice (courts apply 24 hours)
Repairs, inspections, showings. Written notice is best practice even if not required.
Emergency entry
No notice
Fire, gas leak, major flooding, structural risk. Genuine emergencies only.
Reasonable time
Daytime
Even with notice, entry usually must be at a reasonable time and not harassing.
Repeated violations
Harassment
Repeated improper entries can qualify as harassment. Document each incident.
You can refuse entry without proper notice. If your landlord shows up without proper notice, you
can say: "Please schedule this visit in writing with the required advance notice."
Safety first: If you feel unsafe, do not confront alone. Call a local tenant hotline or legal aid
(see Free Help) for next steps.
Rent Increases
No statewide rent cap based on our dataset. Local ordinances may still cap increases or require
relocation assistance.
No statewide rent control (banned 1994 ballot measure). Boston and other cities exploring local measures. Statewide ballot measure possible November 2026.
Notice required
No statutory requirement (30 days typical)
Notice rules often depend on lease type and % increase.
Best practice
Get it in writing
Keep the notice letter/email and note the effective date.
Eviction Rights
No statewide just-cause requirement. No statewide just-cause requirement. Strong procedural protections for eviction.
Non-payment notice
14 days
This is the notice period before a landlord can typically file for eviction.
Critical warning
Do not ignore court papers
If you receive a summons/complaint, respond immediately and seek help.
Always respond to court papers. Missing deadlines can lead to a default judgment. Call 211 or your
state legal aid the same day.
Required Landlord Disclosures
Common disclosures landlords must provide before or at lease signing. Requirements can vary by state and city.
Lead paint (pre-1978) Smoke/CO detectors Mold / moisture Bed bug history Flooding history Sex offender registry notice Death on premises (varies)
Tip: If a disclosure seems missing, ask for it in writing and keep the response in your records.
Repair Rights
Your landlord must maintain
- Weathertight roof, walls, floors, windows, and doors
- Working heating system (habitability)
- Hot and cold running water and functional plumbing
- Safe electrical system with adequate lighting
- Working appliances if provided by the landlord
- Freedom from pest infestations not caused by the tenant
- Functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (where required)
- Mold — landlord must address water intrusion and resulting mold
Always report repairs in writing. Email/text with photos, dates, and a clear request. Keep the
thread. If conditions are dangerous, call 211 or local code enforcement for guidance.