Milwaukee landlords follow Wisconsin's statewide security deposit framework. Wisconsin Act 76 (2018) and ATCP 134 require deposits to be returned within 21 days of move-out with an itemized statement, and Milwaukee cannot impose stricter local rules.
Wisconsin Administrative Code ATCP 134.06 governs security deposits for residential rentals statewide and requires landlords to return the deposit, less itemized lawful deductions, within 21 days after the tenant surrenders the unit. Wisconsin Act 76 (2018) preempted Milwaukee from imposing stricter timelines, lower caps, or additional disclosure requirements. The city's Tenant Bill of Rights points renters to ATCP 134 and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection for enforcement. Milwaukee continues to provide rental-rights education through its Department of Neighborhood Services tenant resources page.
Failure to return a deposit on time or to provide an itemized list of deductions can expose landlords to double damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees under Wis. Stat. §100.20(5).
Milwaukee, WI
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Milwaukee, WI
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