Wisconsin Security Deposit Normal Wear and Tear
Wisconsin does not allow a landlord to deduct for normal wear and tear. Normal wear means ordinary aging and use from living in the rental, not tenant damage, waste, or neglect.
This matters because Wisconsin specifically limits routine across-the-board cleaning, painting, or carpet-cleaning deductions caused only by normal wear.
Examples that may look like normal wear
- Light carpet wear from ordinary walking.
- Minor wall marks from normal use.
- Faded paint or flooring from age.
- Ordinary wear around doors, fixtures, and appliances.
Examples that may look more like damage
- Broken doors, windows, or fixtures.
- Large stains, burns, or holes.
- Missing items owned by the landlord.
- Damage caused by misuse, neglect, pets, or guests.
How to protect the record
- Keep your check-in damage notes and photos.
- Photograph and video the rental at move-out.
- Save cleaning records and key-return proof.
- Compare every claimed charge to the landlord's itemized written accounting.
Related Wisconsin guides
- What can a Wisconsin landlord deduct?
- Wisconsin security deposit evidence guide
- Wisconsin security deposit deadline
- Wisconsin security deposit demand letter
The free guide above explains the distinction. The paid system gives you the letters that use your evidence and timing record.