Security Deposit Withholding

[LSchmid]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? WI

What, specifically, can a landlord withhold from a tenant's security deposit?

For example, I know they cannot withhold for carpet cleaning but what about painting a wall?

Is there a certain life expectancy on items in a rental unit, for example countertops?

What is considered neglect?

 

[treese]

A landlord can charge for anything beyond normal wear and tear.

If the carpets are left dirty or stained, the landlord CAN charge for carpet cleaning. Dirt and stains are not normal wear and tear.

There is a life expectancy for all items in a rental unit. The life expectancy depends on the component and what the component is made of.

Countertops will vary by material. Generally, a laminate top would have a life expectancy of 7-10 years, cultured marble 20 years, of course granite would have a much longer life expectancy.

 

[LSchmid]

Thank you for your reply. Is there somewhere I can find what the life expectancy is for items in a rental unit in WI?

 

[Gail in Georgia]

One source (and no, you're not going to find laws specific to each state):

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/dhca/housing/landload_T/pdf/ordinarywearandtearinorderbypage03.26.07.pdf

Gail