Asked in Landlord - Tenant for Wisconsin

Q: Can my landlord charge me for carpet cleaning? What about replacement if the carpet is 10 years or older?

I am currently under the impression that due to Act 10 in 2011, there is a provision that specifically prohibits these types of charges, however, I've been unable to find it while searching.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Jason Anthony Greller
Jason Anthony Greller
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Madison, WI
  • Licensed in Wisconsin

A: Under Wis Admin Code ATCP 134.06(3)(c) landlords cannot withhold from a tenant's security deposit for normal "wear & tear" even if included in a nonstandard rental provision. This means that a landlord cannot automatically deduct the cost of routine carpet cleaning from a tenant's security deposit unless the cleaning is necessary as a result of damage, waste or neglect and is, therefore, something more than normal wear & tear.

It is acceptable to indicated in the rental agreement that the tenant is responsible for providing and paying for routine carpet cleaning. See DOJ letter to DATCP dated 7/31/13. But, if the tenant fails to do so, a landlord still cannot deduct the cost of routine carpet cleaning from the tenant's security deposit.

Sarah Lynn Ruffi agrees with this answer

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