🧀 Wisconsin Lease Termination Laws
Complete guide to ending a lease in Wisconsin, including notice requirements, eviction procedures, and tenant rights under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704.
📖 Overview of Wisconsin Lease Termination Laws
Wisconsin landlord-tenant law is governed by Wis. Stat. Chapter 704 and ATCP 134 (Residential Rental Practices). Wisconsin provides tenant protections through both statutes and administrative code, with specific notice requirements and detailed security deposit rules.
Wisconsin requires 5 days notice for non-payment (short) but provides detailed consumer protections through ATCP 134. The unique 28-day notice for month-to-month comes from requiring notice before the periodic rent payment date.
📋 Primary Legal Authority
Wisconsin lease termination is governed by Wis. Stat. Chapter 704 and ATCP 134. Key sections include § 704.17 (termination), § 704.28 (security deposits), and ATCP 134 (residential rental practices).
⏱️ Notice Requirements
| Situation | Notice Required | Details | Legal Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 28 Days | Before rent due date | § 704.19 |
| Non-Payment | 5 Days | Pay or vacate | § 704.17(2) |
| Lease Violations | 5 Days | Cure or vacate | § 704.17(2) |
| Week-to-Week | 7 Days | Written notice | § 704.19 |
🔍 Screen Tenants to Avoid Termination Issues
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📄 Wisconsin Resources
❓ FAQs
How much notice for non-payment in Wisconsin?
5 days written notice to pay or vacate. Tenant can cure by paying all rent due within 5 days.
What is the 28-day notice requirement?
Month-to-month tenancies require notice at least 28 days before the next rent due date, not just 28 days from the notice date.
Security deposit return deadline?
21 days after termination with itemized statement. No statutory limit on deposit amount, but must follow ATCP 134 requirements.
📋 Legal Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Wisconsin laws are subject to change. Consult a licensed attorney before taking legal action. Last updated 2025.
