Wisconsin Landlord Rights And Laws You Should Know For 2025

As a landlord in Wisconsin and the Coulee Region, understanding your legal rights and responsibilities is essential for protecting your investment and maintaining positive relationships with tenants. With the new year here, it’s the perfect time to brush up on Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws to ensure compliance and minimize disputes. Below, Bosshard Parke will help you understand key aspects of landlord rights in Wisconsin, responsibilities, and updates for 2025.

Security Deposits

In Wisconsin, landlords can require a security deposit as part of the lease agreement, but there are strict rules regarding how deposits are handled:

• Amount: Wisconsin law does not cap the amount of the security deposit, but it must be reasonable and agreed upon in the lease.
• Return Timeline: Security deposits must be returned within 21 days after a tenant moves out, provided they have met the lease terms. Deductions can only be made for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or other lease violations.
• Itemized Deductions: If deductions are made, landlords must provide an itemized list to the tenant detailing the reasons and costs.

Rent Increases And Lease Renewals

• Notice for Rent Increases: Wisconsin does not cap rent amounts but requires advance notice for rent increases. For month-to-month tenants, landlords must provide at least 28 days’ notice before raising rent.
• Lease Renewals: Landlords must honor the terms of the original lease, including notice requirements for non-renewal. If no notice is given, a fixed-term lease may convert to a month-to-month agreement.
• Prohibited Practices: Retaliatory rent increases (e.g., raising rent because a tenant exercised their legal rights) are illegal under Wisconsin law.

Eviction Rules: Follow The Proper Legal Process

Evictions are a challenging aspect of being a landlord, but following Wisconsin’s legal procedures is crucial to avoid disputes or penalties:

1. Grounds for Eviction:
   • Nonpayment of rent
   • Lease violations
   • Illegal activities on the property
2. Notice Requirements:
   • 5-Day Notice: For nonpayment or minor lease violations, tenants must be given five days to remedy the issue.
   • 14-Day Notice: For repeated violations or serious breaches, landlords can issue a 14-day notice to vacate without allowing time for the tenant to fix the issue.
3. Court Filing: If a tenant does not leave after the notice period, landlords must file for eviction in small claims court and obtain a court order before removing the tenant. Self-help evictions (e.g., changing locks) are illegal.

Landlord Responsibilities For Repairs And Maintenance

Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide a habitable living environment and maintain the property to meet local housing codes:

• Essential Repairs: Landlords must fix issues that affect health and safety, such as broken heating systems, plumbing problems, or structural damage.
• Winter Maintenance: During Wisconsin’s harsh winters, landlords must ensure heating systems are functioning and that common areas, such as walkways and parking lots, are safe and free from ice or snow.

Failing to meet maintenance obligations could result in tenant claims or legal action.

Tips For Wisconsin Landlords In 2025

Here are some key considerations for landlords in 2025:

• Electronic Payment Options: If offering digital payment methods, landlords should clarify acceptable forms of payment in the lease agreement to avoid disputes.
• Fair Housing Compliance: Landlords must continue to comply with federal and state fair housing laws, ensuring no discrimination based on race, religion, familial status, or other protected characteristics.
• Climate Concerns and Energy Efficiency: While not mandated, landlords are encouraged to adopt energy-efficient upgrades to attract environmentally conscious tenants and reduce operating costs.
• Law Changes and Updates: Stay updated on local ordinances and state legislative developments that may impact rental practices in Wisconsin.

Protect Your Rights As A Landlord In Wisconsin

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a landlord in Wisconsin is essential for navigating the complexities of property management. From handling security deposits to addressing repairs and evictions, compliance with Wisconsin law helps avoid disputes and ensures positive relationships with tenants.

If you’re unsure about your obligations or need assistance navigating legal challenges, the experienced attorneys at Bosshard Parke are here to help. Serving landlords in La Crosse, Sparta, and surrounding areas, we offer guidance on lease agreements, eviction proceedings, and compliance with landlord-tenant laws.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance on your situation, consult an attorney at Bosshard Parke.