Wisconsin Security Deposit Laws
Wisconsin caps security deposits at one month's rent and requires return within 21 days with a written itemized statement.
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Key Rules
- Limit
- 1 month's rent maximum
- Return Deadline
- 21 days after tenant vacates
- Itemization Required
- Yes — written itemized statement required within 21 days
- Move In Checklist
- Landlord must provide written check-in form; failure may affect right to deductions
- Bad Faith Penalty
- Tenant may recover twice the wrongfully withheld amount under ATCP 134 (consumer protection statute)
Applicable Statutes
Security deposit and withholding rules under statute. Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06 provides the detailed regulations: maximum one month's rent; return within 21 days with itemized statement.
Security deposit regulations: one month's rent maximum (for standard tenancies), 21-day return deadline, written itemized statement required. Landlord must provide a written description of unit condition at move-in.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.