Landlord Responsibilities

Under Wisconsin landlord tenant law, landlords are obligated to:

• Provide a habitable property – This includes heat, water, electricity, proper ventilation, and compliance with building codes.

• Make timely repairs – Landlords must fix problems that materially affect health, safety, or habitability after being notified.

• Disclose important information – Required disclosures include the name and address of the landlord or agent, known code violations, and utility responsibilities.

• Respect tenant privacy – At least 12 hours’ notice must be given before entering the rental unit unless there’s an emergency.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants in Wisconsin are legally required to:

• Pay rent as agreed – Timely payment of rent is a central obligation under any lease.

• Keep the property clean and undamaged – Tenants must not intentionally or negligently damage the premises.

• Comply with lease terms – This includes pet policies, noise restrictions, and occupancy rules.

• Notify landlords of needed repairs – Prompt communication is encouraged to resolve issues efficiently.

Failure to meet these responsibilities may lead to legal action or lease termination.

Lease Agreements Under Wisconsin Law

Types of Rental Agreements

Rental agreements in Wisconsin can be written or verbal, though written leases are highly recommended for clarity. Common formats include:

• Fixed-term lease – Usually lasts for 6 or 12 months, with a specified end date.

• Month-to-month lease – Renews automatically unless either party provides proper notice.

What a Wisconsin Lease Should Include

To comply with Wisconsin landlord tenant law, a lease agreement should clearly state:

• Names and addresses of all parties

• Description of the rental unit

• Lease start and end dates

• Rent amount, due date, and payment method

• Security deposit terms

• Maintenance and repair responsibilities

• Rules regarding pets, smoking, and subletting

• Notice period for termination or renewal

Landlords are also required to include a Move-In Checklist and check-in sheet to document the unit’s condition.

Eviction Laws in Wisconsin

Grounds for Eviction

Landlords in Wisconsin may initiate eviction proceedings for several legally valid reasons:

• Nonpayment of rent

• Violation of lease terms

• Criminal activity on the premises

• Lease expiration with no renewal

Eviction Process Overview

1. Notice to Vacate

   • 5-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate – Used for first-time rent violations.

   • 14-Day Notice to Vacate – Used for repeat violations or severe lease breaches.

   • 28-Day Notice – For ending a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

2. Filing an Eviction Lawsuit
   If the tenant does not vacate, the landlord can file an eviction action (also known as a small claims case) in Circuit Court.

3. Court Hearing
   Both parties may present evidence. If the judge rules in favor of the landlord, a writ of restitution is issued.

4. Enforcement by Sheriff
   If the tenant still doesn’t leave, the sheriff may physically remove them under court supervision. Self-help evictions are prohibited.

Security Deposit Rules in Wisconsin

Security deposits are tightly regulated under Wisconsin landlord tenant law:

• No maximum amount – Landlords can set the deposit amount but must disclose it in the lease.

• Return timeline – Deposits must be returned within 21 days of the lease ending, along with an itemized list of deductions if applicable.

• Permissible deductions – Include unpaid rent, property damage (beyond normal wear and tear), and cleaning fees as specified in the lease.

• Move-in documentation – Landlords must provide a written notice allowing the tenant to inspect the premises and request repairs before move-in.

Landlords who fail to follow deposit laws may face penalties, including double damages and attorney’s fees in court.

Dispute Resolution and Legal Support in Wisconsin

Common Rental Disputes

Disputes may involve:

• Security deposit returns

• Repairs and maintenance delays

• Rent increases or lease violations

• Unauthorized entry or privacy concerns

Ways to Resolve Rental Conflicts

• Open communication – Written requests or notices often resolve misunderstandings.

• Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) – Handles landlord-tenant complaints and enforces ATCP 134 rules.

• Small Claims Court – Tenants and landlords can file claims under $10,000 for issues like deposit disputes or unpaid rent.

• Legal Aid Organizations – Groups such as Legal Action of Wisconsin provide support to qualifying tenants facing eviction or housing discrimination.

Proper documentation—including emails, notices, photos, and lease agreements—is essential when pursuing legal claims.

Final Thoughts on Wisconsin Landlord Tenant Law

Wisconsin landlord tenant law sets clear expectations for rental housing, helping both landlords and tenants understand their rights and responsibilities. From creating leases to handling evictions and security deposits, following state law reduces conflict and ensures a more stable rental experience. Staying informed and compliant with legal procedures leads to fewer disputes and smoother tenancies throughout the Badger State.