Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws, governed by Wis. Stat. ch. 704 and ATCP 134, balance rights for renters and owners while emphasizing habitability and fair processes.
Landlord Obligations
Landlords must maintain habitable units with working heat, plumbing, and electricity, disclose known code violations before collecting money, and provide 12 hours’ notice for non-emergency entry. Security deposits cap at one month’s rent, must return within 21 days of move-out (or 30 if rent unpaid), with itemized deductions for damage beyond wear and tear.
Tenant Rights
Renters gain privacy protections, can request repairs, and may withhold rent or terminate leases for unaddressed habitability issues after notice; evictions require 5-day (nonpayment) or 14-day (violations) notices followed by court. No statewide rent control exists, but increases need 28 days’ notice for month-to-month tenancies.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Renting (Tenant) | Owning (Landlord) |
|---|---|---|
| Repairs | Report issues promptly | Fix within reasonable time |
| Eviction | Protected by due process | Must use court, no self-help |
| Deposits | Refund if no damage | Limit 1 mo. rent, itemize |
| Entry | 12-hr notice required | Reasonable times only |
SOURCES
[1](https://innago.com/wisconsin-landlord-tenant-laws/)
[2](https://www.steadily.com/blog/landlord-tenant-laws-wisconsin)
[3](https://www.payrent.com/articles/wisconsin-landlord-tenant-laws/)
[4](https://wilawlibrary.gov/topics/landlord.php)
[5](https://www.landlordstudio.com/landlord-tenant-laws/wisconsin-landlord-tenant-laws)
