Moovproof

Wisconsin · WI

In Wisconsin, a landlord must return a security deposit within 21 calendar days.

Return deadline
21 calendar days
Itemized statement
Required
Move-in condition list
Required of the landlord
Maximum deposit
No statutory cap
Interest on deposit
Not required

If the landlord withholds in bad faith

A tenant may sue under Wis. Stat. § 100.20(5) for a violation of ATCP 134, recovering twice the amount of the pecuniary loss plus costs, including reasonable attorney fees.

Landlord must return the deposit within 21 days of tenancy termination, itemizing any amount withheld (normal wear excluded). Before accepting the deposit, landlord must notify the tenant in writing of the right to inspect and report pre-existing damage (min 7 days after move-in). No cap/interest.

Check your deadlineDraft a demand letter

Wis. Admin. Code § ATCP 134.06; Wis. Stat. § 704.28; § 100.20(5) · source · verified 2026-07-10

General information, not legal advice. Statutes change and local rules vary — check your lease and your local law, or consult a tenant attorney or legal aid.