Wisconsin Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Wis. Stat. §704.28 and ATCP 134.06 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 21 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 21 calendar days, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Wis. Stat. §100.20(5) via ATCP 134.06.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: no statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 21 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide check-in sheet at move-in documenting condition
- Landlord must provide itemized statement of deductions within 21 days
- ATCP 134 provides consumer protection overlay on deposit rules
- Tenant may recover double damages for violations of ATCP 134
What Your Wisconsin Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Wisconsin's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Wis. Stat. §704.28 and ATCP 134.06 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
21 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
double the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Wisconsin Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Wisconsin?
Under Wis. Stat. §704.28 and ATCP 134.06, your landlord has 21 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Wisconsin landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Wis. Stat. §100.20(5) via ATCP 134.06. You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Wisconsin?
Under Wis. Stat. §704.28 and ATCP 134.06, the maximum security deposit in Wisconsin is no statutory limit.
Does my Wisconsin landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 21 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Wisconsin?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Wisconsin-specific demand letter citing Wis. Stat. §704.28 and ATCP 134.06 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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