What is the security deposit limit in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has no statutory cap on security deposits. However, landlords must return deposits within 21 days or face 2x damages.

What is Wisconsin's ATCP 134?

ATCP 134 is Wisconsin's administrative code governing landlord-tenant relationships. It provides detailed rules on security deposits, lease terms, disclosures, and landlord-tenant practices that supplement state landlord-tenant law.

Does Wisconsin have rent control?

No. Wisconsin prohibits local rent control ordinances by state law.

How long does a Wisconsin landlord have to return a security deposit?

21 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions. Wrongful withholding entitles tenants to 2x the withheld amount.

What are 'nonstandard rental provisions' in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin requires landlords to separately disclose any lease provisions that differ from statutory defaults — things like fee schedules for specific damages. These must be disclosed at the time of lease signing, not buried in the standard lease.

Wisconsin Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit Varies

Return Deadline 21 days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

Madison leases with August clustering around UW move-in dates. Wisconsin commercial leases where the 12-hour entry notice provision creates less privacy than tenants expect. Milwaukee commercial leases in older buildings with deferred maintenance obligations.

Rent Control

Rent Control: No statewide rent control

Habitability & Repair Requirements

Wisconsin landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition. Wisconsin is moderately tenant-protective with a 1-month deposit cap, 12-hour entry notice requirement (one of the shorter notice periods), and defined habitability standards. Madison's university market creates tight conditions.

Eviction Process

Madison's market is driven by University of Wisconsin, with residential vacancy under 3% near campus. Milwaukee's market has seen downtown recovery but significant outmigration in some neighborhoods. Green Bay is stable, driven by healthcare and manufacturing.

Tenant Protections & Notable Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in Wisconsin?: Wisconsin has no statutory cap on security deposits. However, landlords must return deposits within 21 days or face 2x damages.
What is Wisconsin's ATCP 134?: ATCP 134 is Wisconsin's administrative code governing landlord-tenant relationships. It provides detailed rules on security deposits, lease terms, disclosures, and landlord-tenant practices that supplement state landlord-tenant law.
Does Wisconsin have rent control?: No. Wisconsin prohibits local rent control ordinances by state law.
How long does a Wisconsin landlord have to return a security deposit?: 21 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions. Wrongful withholding entitles tenants to 2x the withheld amount.
What are 'nonstandard rental provisions' in Wisconsin?: Wisconsin requires landlords to separately disclose any lease provisions that differ from statutory defaults — things like fee schedules for specific damages. These must be disclosed at the time of lease signing, not buried in the standard lease.

Cities in Wisconsin

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in Wisconsin: