Everything you need to know about landlord-tenant laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and property management in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin's rental market features strong demand in Milwaukee, Madison, and the Fox Valley region. Madison's university population creates consistent student housing demand, while Milwaukee offers affordable investment properties. Wisconsin landlord-tenant law (ATCP 134) provides detailed regulations but remains generally balanced. The state prohibits local rent control and has standardized rules for security deposits and evictions. Wisconsin requires specific lease provisions and disclosures, so using compliant lease forms is important.
No state limit
21 days after move-out
File small claims eviction. Hearing within 15-25 days. If landlord wins, writ of restitution issued after appeal period (5 days).
Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide the following disclosures to tenants:
No statutory limit but must be reasonable. Must be included in the lease. Courts generally accept 5% of monthly rent as reasonable.