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)
