Buffalo City, WI Security Deposit Laws 2026
Wisconsin limits security deposits to 2 month(s) of rent. In Buffalo City, that's $2,194 at the median 2BR rent of $1,097/month. Miss the 21-day return deadline and you could owe $2,194+.
In Wisconsin, landlords must return security deposits within 21 days after move-out. The maximum deposit is 2 month(s) of rent. Failure to return on time or provide an itemized statement can result in penalties of $2,194 or more.
Key Takeaways — Buffalo City Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 2 month(s) of rent = $2,194 at Buffalo City's median rent
- Return deadline: 21 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 2x the deposit ($2,194)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in Buffalo City
Under Wisconsin law, landlords in Buffalo City may collect a maximum security deposit of 2 month(s) of rent. At Buffalo City's median 2-bedroom rent of $1,097/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $2,194.
$2,194
max deposit (2mo × $1,097)
21 days
return deadline
$2,194
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 21-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your Buffalo City rental, Wisconsin law gives you exactly 21 days to either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. The clock starts on the day the tenant surrenders possession — not when you inspect the unit.
What you can deduct from a security deposit in Buffalo City:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to move-in condition
- Costs for restoring or replacing personal property (if lease allows)
What you cannot deduct:
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear, faded paint)
- Pre-existing damage (document with photos at move-in)
- Professional cleaning if the tenant left the unit in reasonable condition
Penalty Warning
Violate Wisconsin security deposit laws rules in Buffalo City and you could owe $2,194+. At Buffalo City's median rent of $1,097/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
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How Buffalo City Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what Buffalo City landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (Buffalo City) | Max Deposit (2mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $797/mo | $1,594 | $3,188 |
| 1-Bedroom | $871/mo | $1,742 | $3,484 |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,097/mo | $2,194 | $4,388 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,405/mo | $2,810 | $5,620 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for State Average.
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More Buffalo City Landlord Laws
Security Deposit Laws in Nearby Cities
Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:
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Not ready to start? Get the free Security Deposit Laws checklist for Wisconsin landlords.
Download Free ChecklistReviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
