Wisconsin Eviction Laws
Wisconsin requires a 5-day written notice to pay rent or vacate for nonpayment of rent for month-to-month tenancies.
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Key Rules
- Nonpayment Notice
- 5 days written notice to pay rent or vacate (month-to-month tenancy)
- Lease Violation Notice
- 5 days to cure for certain lease violations; others allow immediate termination
- Periodic Tenancy Notice
- 28 days notice for month-to-month termination
- Rent Control
- No rent control — Wisconsin preempts local rent control ordinances
Applicable Statutes
Notice requirements for eviction: for nonpayment of rent, landlord must give 5-day written notice to pay or vacate for tenancies of 1 year or less; 30 days for tenancies exceeding 1 year.
Eviction (forcible entry and detainer) procedure: all evictions must proceed through court. Self-help eviction is prohibited.
Retaliation prohibited: landlord may not retaliate against tenant for reporting habitability violations, joining a tenant organization, or exercising legal rights.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.