Wisconsin eviction laws. National Business Institute .

Wisconsin eviction laws 01 to 704. 422-7128 to file a complaint, and/or Legal Action of Wisconsin or a private attorney to sue for double damages. At-Fault Evictions. Understand Wisconsin lease renewal laws, including notice periods, automatic renewals, and rent adjustments, to ensure a smooth transition for all parties. Statutes §704. What are landlords required to provide by law? Wisconsin landlords are legally obligated to provide a safe and habitable living environment, maintain essential utilities like heat and water, and adhere to the terms of the lease agreement. Legal Action of Wisconsin's Eviction Defense Project (EDP) is court-based, FREE legal aid for low-income tenants who are facing eviction. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. (608) 266-4311 This is a summary of Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant laws that apply to residential (non-commercial) rentals. 35. Evictions must be commenced with cause, but there are exceptions where the eviction process can commence without cause. Stat. A75 E94 2005 Audio . Get key insights into tenant rights and landlord obligations. Wisconsin winters can be cold, so some private written lease agreements will state that the landlord can't evict during the winter months. In Wisconsin, eviction laws outline the conditions under which a landlord can legally remove a tenant and the protections afforded to tenants during this process. These references were compiled from the Wisconsin Statutes, the Wisconsin Administrative Code, and various online sources to serve as a reference and for people wanting to learn about Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws, Wisconsin eviction laws, and Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Law Overview. Code. The eviction process requires filing a summons and complaint with the appropriate county court and 704. Landlords can serve notice starting the day after rent is due. 17(5). (Published 3-7-25) Find out the eviction process in every state, including legal eviction reasons, notice requirements, and timelines. Some counties require proof of this notice before an eviction will be granted. Or, if you don't know the exact statute number, you can enter a keyword that is likely to be in it Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney experienced in Wisconsin landlord-tenant law to address complex issues or disputes. , raising rent because a tenant exercised their legal rights) are illegal under Wisconsin law. For instance, before any eviction action can be taken, landlords are required by law to issue an eviction notice in Wisconsin, which must be appropriately drafted Learn about Wisconsin eviction laws, including winter eviction rules, the eviction process, and tenant rights. Ann. Wis. Eviction Process And Regulations. It is very important to A reference of Wisconsin eviction laws, and steps of the Wisconsin eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. Properly serving these notices ensures compliance with Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws and helps prevent potential disputes The legal eviction process begins when the landlord serves the tenant a written notice under Wis. . 17(1)(a), (2)(a) 14-Day Notice Stay informed on Wisconsin eviction laws with our 2023 update. 16 Nuisance Notice Wis Stat. Before your landlord can begin the legal eviction process in Wisconsin courts, he or she must give you adequate and proper legal notice. 4. If a landlord violates Chapter ATCP 134 Tenants may be evicted if the dwelling is declared a nuisance by law enforcement. 17(2)(a)) Noncompliance of lease agreement (Wis Stat. When tenants face an eviction, housing advocates suggest they talk to their landlords, apply for rental assistance and find legal support. 95; 134. If a law-enforcement agency gives the landlord written notice that drugs are being made or shared either in your unit or by you on the landlord’s property, or that criminal gangs are meeting in your unit. Landlords cannot use “self-help” measures such as harassment, Until stated otherwise in the lease, rent is due at the start of each month and is considered late the day following the due date. While many landlord-tenant conflicts can be resolved without going to court, the laws involved in these conflicts are complex. Landlords can evict a tenant for lease violations, non Eviction Notice and Lawsuit Process. If a landlord breaks Wisconsin law against self-help evictions, the landlord may be charged in criminal court, and the tenant may be able to sue in civil court under Wis This article details a summary for a landlord to refer to when evicting a tenant in compliance with Wisconsin state law. (1) When commenced. 05 Annotation Any act of the landlord that so interferes with the tenant's enjoyment or possession of the premises as to render them unfit for occupancy for the purposes for which they were leased is an eviction releasing the tenant from the obligation to pay rent. Landlords may not disconnect utilities, change locks, remove doors, or harass a tenant to vacate until Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Law FAQs. A reference of Wisconsin eviction laws, and steps of the Wisconsin eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. Rent control. A Wisconsin month-to-month lease is a type of tenancy where either the landlord or tenant can void or change the terms of the contract with at least a month notice. Understanding Wisconsin’s eviction laws and the legal rights they give to renters can help you prepare for or even prevent eviction. Wisconsin landlord-tenant law provides a detailed set of rules and regulations to ensure fairness in rental agreements. Understanding these elements is essential for both landlords and tenants to navigate the eviction process correctly and protect their rights. There is no legal grace period for paying rent in Wisconsin. In Wisconsin, landlords have the right to evict tenants for various reasons such as non-payment of rent, lease violations and refusing to vacate after expiration. Eviction procedures involve providing a written 1. 19 (3) of Wisconsin law, the renter or landlord must create an eviction notice 28 days or more Winter Eviction Myths: there's a long-time myth circulating which says that landlords are not allowed to evict during the winter. §§ 704. 10; Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Law governs the legal rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants in the state of Wisconsin. These regulations are designed to protect the rights of both parties while ensuring a fair procedure is followed. 45, if Call the sheriff's office for immediate help getting back into your apartment, Consumer Protection at (800) 422-7128 to file a complaint, and Legal Action of Wisconsin or a private attorney to sue for double damages. 2. Notice requirements may not be waived. However, a landlord would be able to evict a tenant on legal grounds such as the tenant not paying rent on time, staying after the lease ends, violating lease terms or not upholding responsibilities under Wisconsin law. Code, further regulates mobile home park operator-tenant relations. Free legal help includes brief legal advice, document drafting, settlement assistance and in-court Wisconsin tenants without a lease still retain rights under state landlord-tenant laws. To initiate an eviction in Wisconsin, a landlord must have a legal ground. These laws do not apply in the following situations: If the motel room is being provided free of charge in exchange for maintaining or operating the motel (ATCP 134. For tenants, they offer important protections and a framework for The legal eviction process in Wisconsin begins with a landlord delivering a written notice to the tenant under Wis. Act 317 also covers non-landlord-tenant-related topics that will not be addressed in this article, including the repair or replacement of properties in historic districts, inspections of rental Key elements of Wisconsin eviction laws pertain to grounds for eviction, notice requirements, the eviction process, and tenant rights and protections. The first type is at-fault, meaning a tenant does something wrong or fails to take the required action. Changes effective after January 1, 2025, are designated by NOTES. 17, This section Wisconsin's eviction laws provide the framework for how landlords can legally remove tenants from rental properties, ensuring that the process is fair and just for both parties. 40. Adm. , 93 Wis. This is simply not true. § § 704. DATCP later adopted ATCP 134 based on that report. The risk of lengthy litigation increases when rental agreements breach safety standards or ignore tenant health concerns. 704, and Wis. (Coburn Dukehart / Wisconsin Watch) Evictions during the winter months in Wisconsin present unique challenges for both tenants and landlords. It serves as a formal communication between the landlord and the tenant, outlining the grounds for eviction and the timeframe within which the tenant must Apartment Association of South Central Wisconsin (608) 826-6226. Tenants can request repairs or withhold rent if conditions become uninhabitable. 01 to 134. Similarly, landlords are not limited by how much they can raise rent, but they must give at least 28 days of advanced notice. Threatening legal action can stop illegal evictions, and law enforcement may assist in getting back your property. W. This project serves only tenants with hearings scheduled the day of service. Call toll free at (800) 422-7128. 17(2)(c) (c) A property owner may terminate the tenancy of a tenant who is under a lease for a term of one year or less or who is a year-to-year tenant if the property owner receives written notice from a law enforcement agency, as defined in s. If a landlord is sued by a tenant, the court will determine what damages a landlord will have to pay. Evictions occur when the tenant defaults on their obligations. 01(5)) Eviction Process in Wisconsin - Understand Eviction Process in Wisconsin, Foreclosure, its processes, and crucial Foreclosure information needed. Tenants also have legal remedies if landlords violate lease terms, such as failing to maintain habitable conditions. 704, Wis. While rent control is prohibited, state law provides avenues for resolving conflicts. The lien attaches as of the first day the personal property is stored in the leased space and is superior This is a summary of Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant laws that apply to residential (non-commercial) rentals. Sometimes, the Retaliatory eviction is not allowed under Wisconsin law, and includes bringing an eviction action in retaliation for the following causes: a tenant reporting a violation of Wisconsin statute or building or housing codes, a tenant complaint regarding a failure on the part of the landlord to execute their duties under Wisconsin statute or If you receive a summons for eviction, seek the help of a legal aid service (look up LEGAL AID in the yellow pages of your phone book), consult with a private attorney or call the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral Service at: (800) 362-9082 or (608) 257-4666, Wis. 3 or 14 days; plus, writ cannot be issued for 2 days: Learn about Wisconsin landlord eviction rights, legal procedures, notice requirements, and tenant defenses in our comprehensive guide. In Wisconsin, the eviction process begins with the How to Evict Tenants in Wisconsin with a Month-to-Month Lease. 09(7) Sometimes just threatening all of this (in writing!) is enough your eviction. ; You pose a threat of immediate physical harm to Wisconsin Eviction Laws Without Lease 2025. The Wisconsin State Law Library links to landlord / tenant laws, guides, and forms. It provides for landlord-tenant relationships and fosters a favorable environment for both parties. In Wisconsin the notices typically used are 5-, 14-, and 28-day notices. Learn more about important regulations regarding security deposits, rental agreements, rent pricing, screening, and more. There is no limit on how much a landlord can charge for a rental application fee, and it must be refundable if the landlord rejects the Prohibited Practices: Retaliatory rent increases (e. Wisconsin’s eviction laws are stringent, designed to protect both landlords and tenants. The chart below provides a summary of Wisconsin state laws governing the landlord-tenant relationship, including links to important statutes. For landlords, these laws provide clear guidelines on how to proceed with an eviction legally and responsibly. Wisconsin Statutes 704. According to Sen. 40 Eviction actions. Find out the notice periods, hearing procedures, and illegal eviction types for different eviction grounds. Pettit is co-author of a Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Manual expected for release this summer by State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE Books ®. In the state of Wisconsin, the eviction laws and landlord tenant laws are governed by statute, specifically Chapter 704 of the Wisconsin Self-help evictions are illegal in Wisconsin. While not legally required, offering additional amenities such as on Wisconsin law establishes landlords’ and tenants’ rights and responsibilities relating to leasing, property maintenance, and rental payment, and identifies provisions that may render leases unenforceable. The EDC is part of the University of Wisconsin Law School's Economic Justice Institute. There is no legal grace period for paying rent in The Wisconsin Eviction Data Project is produced by the Interagency Council on Homelessness to track, on a monthly basis, the number of eviction filings and judgements for eviction in all 72 counties in the state to track the state's housing economy, the efficacy of homelessness prevention programs, and to inform the public on housing policy If a tenant were to receive a second five-day eviction notice for nonpayment of rent within the same leasing year, then a landlord can give a no-cure notice, but the resident must be given 14 days to vacate, according to Sophie Crispin, director of the Eviction Defense Clinic at the University of Wisconsin Law School. They can rightfully expect habitability, privacy, and due process for Wisconsin law sets clear boundaries on landlord entry. This section addresses common inquiries about the specifics of squatter's rights and eviction laws in Wisconsin, offering clarity on the legal But Wisconsin’s landlord tenant laws (Wis. Wisconsin Eviction Law. Disputes between landlords and tenants in Wisconsin often involve rent increases, lease terms, security deposits, or maintenance obligations. Connect directly with Wisconsin Eviction Lawyers, plus unlock legal document assistance & small-claims court guidance upon joining. Eviction In Wisconsin . It includes various aspects of Wisconsin rental laws such as security deposits, rent payments, repairs and maintenance, termination of leases, and eviction procedures. Termination is required to commence eviction proceedings. In such cases, the landlord may initiate eviction proceedings in small claims court. th. Chat with a Wisconsin Eviction Lawyer for personalized help. The eviction process in Wisconsin is strictly regulated. H83 2012. Understanding Wisconsin tenant rights is essential for maintaining a fair and lawful rental relationship. Landlord-tenant relations in Wisconsin are regulated by Some notice forms are available for purchase at Wisconsin law libraries or online. In Wisconsin, the eviction process consists of several legal steps required to remove squatters from a property. Eviction proceedings include: Written Notice To Vacate Evictions: A Process Governed by Law. It dictates how leases are created, modified, and enforced. Conclusion. Required Disclosures (by Landlords) Contact Information: Landlord must disclose to the tenant in writing, at or before the time a rental agreement is signed, the name and address of the Seek out an attorney, including free or reduced cost legal assistance (Wisconsin Judicare Free Legal Services or Legal Action Wisconsin). Guide to the Eviction Process in Wisconsin. Landlord-tenant relations in Wisconsin are regulated by Chapter 704, Wisconsin Statutes, and by Chapter ATCP 134, Wis. Renters have the right to due process under state eviction laws. 28 (1) include: Property damage due to negligence, misuse or abuse by tenant, occupants or tenant's guests Evictions and Landlord/Tenant Law in Wisconsin KFW 2517 . File a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection at: MyDATCP: Landlord Tenant Complaint (wi. IN WISCONSIN A TENANT CAN ONLY BE EVICTED BY A COURT ORDER ISSUED BY A JUDGE OR COURT COMMISSIONER All eviction actions begin with a properly served notice to vacate. Self-help evictions, such as changing locks or shutting off utilities, are illegal. Wisconsin Eviction Laws Termination and Eviction in Wisconsin Wis. There are no specific laws in the Wisconsin state legislature regarding squatter evictions- so you can use the same procedures you would to evict any other tenants. South Dakota’s rental application and tenant screening laws are fairly straightforward. 3. In fact, in Wisconsin, courts are not allowed to restrict evictions during the winter. Scott Walker on March 21, 2012, makes significant changes to landlord-tenant law in Wisconsin, some of which may cause confusion in the future. These laws are crucial in guiding how evictions should be conducted, respecting the rights of tenants while allowing landlords to manage their properties effectively. 165. The Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection published a landlord-tenant guide that contains more information and tips about state landlord-tenant laws. Vacate notices may be for 5, 14, or 30 days, but a landlord cannot evict a tenant without cause. DATCP conducted a major landlord-tenant study at the request of the Legislature. Alternatively, a landlord can ask an attorney for legal help if they have COURT STAFF CANNOT GIVE LEGAL ADVICE. ATCP 134, which includes adherence to state or local law housing codes. Evictions in Wisconsin are regulated by state law, which sets out the rules and procedures that landlords and tenants must follow (see Wis. See more Find legal information and resources on rental housing in Wisconsin, including eviction laws, forms, guides, and links. g. What are the reasons that landlords can evict tenants under Wisconsin eviction laws? Nonpayment of rent (Wis Stat. 17(2)(b)) Wisconsin landlord tenant laws through the rental cycle Wisconsin rental application and tenant screening laws. Wisconsin law prohibits rent control policy on both a state and local level, so landlords can charge as much as they want for rent. If a tenant fails to pay rent or violates a portion of the lease, the landlord must first give the tenant notice and an opportunity to fix the deficiency. ATCP 134. 90(3)(a) (a) An operator has a lien on all personal property stored in a leased space for rent and other charges related to the personal property, including expenses necessary to the preservation, removal, storage, preparation for sale and sale of the personal property. Wisconsin recognizes two main types of eviction. 83 (1) (b), or from the office of the district attorney, that a nuisance under s. You must send the relevant eviction notice for the situation. v. What Is the Eviction Process in Wisconsin? The first step in the Wisconsin eviction process is written notice. If you find you are If you just want to browse through the Wisconsin landlord-tenant law, you can find state statutes at Wis. 17 allows a 14 day unconditional quit notice for month-to-month tenants that fail to pay rent, violate the rental agreement, or cause substantial damage to the property. Landlords in Wisconsin cannot forcibly remove any tenant or their belongings without a court order. Wisconsin Eviction Notice for Tenant: In Wisconsin, an eviction notice is a legal document that notifies a tenant of their landlord's intent to terminate their tenancy due to various reasons. gov) or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 422-7128. Code §§ 134. City of Madison Fire Department: Non-Emergency (608) 266-4420. 704. 07 mandates that essential services such as plumbing, heating, and electricity be maintained in good working order. One of the key elements of this law is the Wisconsin Statute § 704. Wisconsin: Up to 10 days: Wyoming: Up to 2 days: Washington, D. Carl W. In Wisconsin, the most common legal causes are tenant failure to pay rent or violation of the lease or rental agreement. Before the landlord files an eviction lawsuit with the court, the landlord must terminate the tenancy. If you own and rent properties in the state of Wisconsin, you are responsible for complying with Wisconsin law on eviction. Property owners can serve eviction notices to squatters, either by filing a 5-day notice to pay rent or vacate or a 14-day notice to Trespassing in Wisconsin is a Class A misdemeanor and law enforcement can remove trespassers without an eviction notice. Admin. Chesshir et al. Squatters Rights and Adverse Possession Laws in Wisconsin Understanding Wisconsin eviction laws is important for landlords who need to manage their rental properties effectively. Evictions, ejectment actions, unlawful detainers and more. It is basically a communique that is issued to a tenant by a landlord or a janitor. 14(1) (1) As provided in section 106. 21 requiring the offending tenant to vacate on or before a date that is at least 5 days after the giving of the notice. Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide rental units that meet minimum habitability standards. These references were compiled from the Wisconsin Statutes, the Wisconsin Administrative Code, and various online sources to serve as a reference and for people wanting to learn about Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws, Wisconsin eviction laws, and The rights and responsibilities of each are significantly different under Wisconsin law, and it's important to differentiate between these two groups to understand the respective legal implications. Learn about your rights and responsibilities as a Access the Tenants' Rights and Responsibilities fact sheet to learn about considerations you should make before you rent, while renting, and before terminating a tenancy, as well as details about eviction and unhealthy or Wisconsin law provides a legal framework for the relationship between landlords and tenants. If a tenant refuses to leave after receiving a valid notice, the landlord must file a formal eviction action under Wisconsin Statute 799. The court reviews the claim against the existing laws and the merits; If successful, the court grants the go-ahead to evict the tenant within 5, 14, 28, or 30 days; The landlord serves the affected tenant Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Laws Tenant Screening in Wisconsin Regarding Security Deposit Wisconsin state law places no restrictions on the amount that landlords may collect from a tenant for a security deposit. Termination of Month-to-Month Lease; Under Section 704. 113 (1) or exists in that tenant’s rental unit or was Understanding Wisconsin’s eviction statutes is essential for both landlords and tenants. DATCP published its findings in a Landlord-Tenant Report dated December 1, 1978. A75 E94 2005 (book) KFW2517. Pettit, Marquette 1995, is a shareholder and executive vice president of the law firm Petrie + Pettit S. Navigating the world of rental properties can be daunting, but comprehending Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws is essential for effectively addressing legal issues and 704. Safe Housing Notice Wis. , office of the Tenant Resource Center. Grounds for eviction include non-payment of rent, remaining after lease expiration In Wisconsin, landlords have the legal right to evict tenants as long as they provide sufficient notice of eviction. Landlords in Wisconsin are not obligated to grant renters a grace period for rent payments. Wiemann Co. In Wisconsin, the courts look to the terms of the commercial lease to determine the rights and responsibilities of the parties. Tristan R. Landlords must stay informed on all requirements to minimize these risks and maintain a positive ATCP 134 is a general order (rule) adopted under Wisconsin’s Unfair Business Practices Law, Wisconsin Statutes section 100. DATCP's Landlord– Tenant Guide answers common questions about the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in simple Additional Landlord Tenant Regulations in Wisconsin. ; Eviction/Notice Terminating Tenancy (Milwaukee County Court); Small Claims Eviction (Milwaukee Clerk of Court); Writ of Restitution and Request for Writ (Manitowoc Clerk of Court); Eviction and civil Wisconsin's landlord-tenant laws are designed to protect you from unfair practices and clarify your rights and responsibilities. If you’re currently a renter in Wisconsin and you’re facing eviction, late on rent, or receiving threats from your landlord A landlord must have legal cause to evict a tenant early, that is, before the term of the tenancy has expired. This may be a 5-day, 14-day or 30-day notice. The notice shall state the basis for its issuance and the right of the offending tenant to contest the termination of tenancy in an eviction action under ch. Evictions must follow Wisconsin’s legal process, as self-help evictions, like changing locks or shutting off utilities, are illegal. EDC clients receive legal services from law students, who Wisconsin’s tenant eviction laws delineate specific grounds for eviction, notice requirements, and legal procedures to ensure fairness and protection for both landlords and tenants. 704 and Wis. Eviction in Wisconsin: Wisconsin Eviction Laws. Stay informed on Wisconsin eviction laws with our 2023 update. 799. s. For help locating the forms you need, contact a librarian. Landlord-Tenant Obligations. ch. In this article, we break down each step of the legal process for eviction in This is a summary of Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant laws that apply to residential (non-commercial) rentals. Written Notice: Before filing an eviction lawsuit, landlords must provide tenants with a written notice specifying the reason for eviction, such as nonpayment of rent, lease No matter your type of tenancy, there are three situations where the landlord is allowed to give a 5-day notice with NO right to cure:. Wisconsin has regulations in place to govern landlord-tenant relations, such as Wis. Additional Federal Resources 2023-24 Wisconsin Statutes updated through all Supreme Court and Controlled Substances Board Orders filed before and in effect on January 1, 2025. Generally, the eviction process involves the following steps: a. 17(1)(c), (2)(c), (3)(b) 5-Day Notice Wis Stat. 01, The Residential Rental Practices rule applies to business practices related to the rental of most residential dwelling units in this state. Legal Action of Wisconsin (LAW) provides same-day, in-person eviction, prevention and diversion services at the courthouse in Milwaukee and La Crosse counties through the Eviction Defense Project (EDP). A civil action of eviction may be commenced by a person entitled to the possession of real property, or by that person’s agent authorized in writing, to remove therefrom any person who is not entitled to either the Summary of Notices to Terminate Tenancies in Wisconsin 1. Whether you’re a tenant seeking protection and security or a landlord aiming to manage your The latest omnibus law is Act 317 (effective April 18, 2018), 1 which made substantial modifications and additions to Wisconsin landlord-tenant law. Legal Grounds for Eviction. You can search the table of contents for the landlord-tenant statutes. The office hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, and certain Fridays. An eviction in Wisconsin may only happen in the case of:. This article provides an overview of Wisconsin’s eviction laws and tenant rights. These laws aim to protect tenants from Landlord / Tenant Our Landlord / Tenant page includes links to statewide forms and guides, as well as helpful information from landlord/tenant organizations. Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Laws Get a general overview on Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws. Law is here. 95; Wis. C. L. An eviction section includes a detailed eviction timeline for landlords and 704. Landlord and Tenant Law in a Nutshell ethics code for public officials ETHICS CODE FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS 2023-24 Wisconsin Statutes updated through all Supreme Court and Controlled Substances Board Orders filed before and in effect on March 7, 2025. These references were compiled from the Wisconsin Statutes, the Wisconsin Administrative Code, and various online sources to serve as a reference and for people wanting to learn about Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws, Wisconsin eviction laws, and A summary of Wisconsin Landlord Tenant Laws based on state law statutes as they apply to residential lease agreements executed between landlords and tenants. In addition to having laws that address general issues like repairs and security deposits, most states, including Wisconsin, grant rights and responsibilities about things like This is called a self-help eviction and according to Wisconsin law, it is illegal to evict a tenant without cause. Landlord-tenant relations in Wisconsin are regulated by Wis. Grounds for eviction include non-payment of rent Your Wisconsin eviction notice must follow the state’s rental property laws, in order to be valid. 2d 258, 286 N. First Wisconsin Trust Co. Dane County Small Claims Court: For information on the mechanics of filing a small claims suit. Of course, a landlord has to have a valid reason for an eviction, and the entire process can still take around 2 months from the time a tenant is sued for eviction for a Rent Increases & Related Fees in Wisconsin. Free legal help includes brief legal advice, document drafting, settlement assistance and in-court The latest omnibus law is Act 317 (effective April 18, 2018), 1 which made substantial modifications and additions to Wisconsin landlord-tenant law. 17(2)(b)) Eviction Process in Wisconsin: In Wisconsin, landlords must follow a legal process to evict tenants. The duration of the notice depends on the reason your Legal Action of Wisconsin (LAW) provides same-day, in-person eviction, prevention and diversion services at the courthouse in Milwaukee and La Crosse counties through the Eviction Defense Project (EDP). 18. Those rules are not enforceable, unless it is a lease longer than a year. HUD Housing Programs: Tenants' Rights KF 5729 . Before filing an eviction action, you must serve proper notice terminating tenancy according to Chapter 704 of the Wisconsin Statutes. § 799. Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. By chatting and providing personal info, you understand and Seek out an attorney, including free or reduced cost legal assistance (Wisconsin Judicare Free Legal Services or Legal Action Wisconsin). Wisconsin law doesn’t specify how landlords must hold a tenant’s security deposit, but several municipalities, such as Madison, have specific requirements about holding They should also understand Wisconsin's landlord-tenant laws to avoid legal issues. All provisions by Wisconsin law to regulate landlord-tenant relations can be found in Wis. Learn how to evict a tenant in Wisconsin legally and quickly. Chapter 704 of the Wisconsin Statutes outlines landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities. In addition, Chapter ATCP 125, Wis. Tenants have defined defenses against eviction, and all actions must comply with fair housing laws. If you receive a summons for eviction, seek the help of a legal aid service, a tenant resource center, consult with a private attorney or call the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral Service at: (800) 362-9082 or (608) 257-4666, Wis. Wisconsin law establishes specific reasons a landlord may lawfully evict a tenant, primarily outlined in Wisconsin Statutes 704 and Chapter ATCP 134 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. 50). 16(3)(b)3. According to data from the Wisconsin Eviction Data Project, there have been 19,072 eviction filings and 1,291 eviction judgments in the first eight months of 2023. Understanding Wisconsin eviction laws is important for landlords who need to manage their rental properties effectively. Whether dealing with non-paying tenants or lease violations, knowing the steps involved and recent changes to Wisconsin eviction laws can help landlords handle evictions correctly and legally. edition, National Housing Law Project . A landlord cannot change the locks, turn off utilities, or force a tenant out in any way other than the legal eviction process. 823. 40-45, and ATCP Ch. There are a number of important requirements that are obligatory when proceeding with the eviction of a rental tenant. 17, detailing the lease violations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dane County clinic is located at 744 Williamson St (same building as Ground Zero and El Dorado Grill). Nonpayment/Lease violations for contracts lasting under 1 year: 5 days’ notice for the first A commercial eviction occurs when a landlord forces a commercial tenant to leave a rented or leased property. In 2022, over 25,000 eviction Understanding Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Laws. § 704. Act 317 also covers non-landlord-tenant-related topics that will not be addressed in this article, including the repair or replacement of properties in historic districts, inspections of rental In Wisconsin, a landlord cannot legally evict a tenant without cause. 134) do not apply to all housing situations in a motel. Once the landlord is ready to evict, a legal claim must be filed in the local county court Getting Legal Help from a Wisconsin Attorney. 20. Additional Federal Resources A reference of Wisconsin eviction laws, and steps of the Wisconsin eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. for immediate help getting back into your apartment, Consumer Protection at (800) 422-7128 to file a complaint, and/or Legal Action of Some leases have rules that conflict with the eviction laws in Wis. 17(2)(b)) Violating Wisconsin eviction laws and regulations can result in court actions, significantly draining time and resources. National Business Institute . While much landlord-tenant law applies to both residential and nonresidential rental properties, this issue The primary eviction law in Wisconsin is the Wisconsin Statute. Tenants facing eviction may have legal defenses, such as retaliatory eviction claims under Wisconsin Statute 704. ; Rental increases. File a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection at: MyDATCP : Landlord Tenant Complaint (wi. City of Madison Police Department: Non-Emergency (608) 255-2345. These grounds could include non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, damage to property, or illegal activities conducted on the premises This is where the Wisconsin eviction notice comes in. You must also determine if the eviction action is due to a foreclosure 704. 2d 360 In Wisconsin, strict landlord-tenant laws guide the eviction process. Wisconsin landlord tenant law requires the landlord to inform the tenant of the terms and conditions for security deposit deductions. Below is a breakdown of some of The Eviction Process in Wisconsin: Rules for Landlords and Property Managers. Frank Lasee (R-De Pere ), who introduced the bill in mid-February, the purpose of SB 466 “is to provide additional structure to standardize state statute for some of the most common Pamphlets with information about eviction prevention and other assistance for renters are seen in 2017 at the Madison, Wis. Evictions are a challenging aspect of being a landlord, but following Wisconsin’s legal procedures is crucial to avoid disputes or penalties: Below is a list of Wisconsin laws governing renter eviction. Clear communication with tenants and proper documentation are crucial for smooth property management operations. Changes effective after March 7, 2025, are designated by NOTES. The landlord gives the offending tenant written notice that complies with s. Harsh weather conditions, coupled with legal protections specific to this time of year, make it essential for all parties to understand their rights and responsibilities. This is a much shorter and easier process than evicting squatters, so getting ahead of any potential squatting situations is ideal. 17 stating how the tenant has violated the lease. Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities under these laws, including timely rent payment and property maintenance. [1] A 30 Day Notice to Quit for nonpayment of rent is an eviction notice for tenants, with a tenancy of more than one (1) year, that do not pay rent in full and on time. Published and certified under s. When evicting a tenant in Wisconsin, a landlord must carefully follow the rules and procedures set forth by Wisconsin law. 10. Get help with how the eviction process begins and progresses. 50 (5m) (dm) of the Wisconsin statutes, a tenant has a defense to an eviction action if the tenant can prove that the landlord knew, or should have known, the tenant is a victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking and that the eviction action is based on conduct related to domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking committed by In fact, in Wisconsin, courts are not allowed to restrict evictions during the winter. , Milwaukee, and is a past president and current board member of the Apartment Association of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. When serving a Wisconsin eviction notice and filing a lawsuit in Wisconsin, you must follow specific legal procedures diligently. Eviction Rules: Follow The Proper Legal Process. Get expert answers to your questions on whether you can be evicted during winter months in Wisconsin. Tenant FAQ The Eviction Defense Clinic (EDC) provides free legal representation to residents of Dane County that have an eviction (no security deposits, conditions, illegal lock outs) case currently in court. Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter ATCP 134 (“ATCP 134”) Scope and Application: ATCP 134. Valid reasons for security deposit deductions under Wisconsin landlord tenant law Wis. Code ch. If serious repair issues are ignored, tenants may withhold rent, though this carries legal risks. Where can I find the Wisconsin landlord-tenant law? You can get a copy of the laws and "The Wisconsin Way: A Guide for Landlords and Tenants" from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. dxtu gljs kbn lohjpzfe ltbhv riber zlsudvt avennteh auvoa dvbps rmnei vguzc edl ctin yazd