Eviction Protections for Mobile Home Owners in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, if you own your mobile home but rent the lot in a mobile home park, your rights and protections may differ from traditional apartment renters. Understanding eviction protections for mobile home owners is essential to safeguard your housing and to ensure you know the steps if you receive an eviction notice. This guide uses official state resources so you have the most reliable and current information.

Eviction Basics for Mobile Home Owners Renting a Lot

In Wisconsin, eviction rules for mobile home owners primarily apply when the resident owns their mobile home but rents a site (lot) in a licensed mobile home community. Protections and processes are governed by the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 710.15 and related sections of the Wisconsin Residential Landlord and Tenant Law.^{[1](#footnote1)}

You cannot be evicted from your lot without proper cause and notice. Your mobile home park operator must follow strict legal procedures and provide specific notice periods.

Common Legal Reasons for Eviction

• Nonpayment of rent
• Violating park rules (must be substantial and non-discriminatory)
• Serious or repeated violation of lease terms
• Grounds for termination must be clear, and park rules must be applied equally to all residents

For a comprehensive list of legal grounds, see Wisconsin § 710.15(5).^{[2](#footnote2)}

Eviction Notice Periods in Wisconsin

The amount of notice you must receive depends on the reason for eviction:

• Nonpayment of rent: At least 5 days' written notice to either pay or quit.
• Other causes (e.g., rule violations): At least 28 days' written notice.

If the rental agreement is not renewed, you are also entitled to at least 28 days' notice before termination.^{[1](#footnote1)}

Wisconsin Official Forms for Mobile Home Evictions

While there are no mobile-home-specific eviction forms provided by the state, park owners typically use standard eviction forms specified by Wisconsin law. Here are the most relevant forms:

• Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (5-Day Notice)
  • When it's used: If you fall behind on rent, your landlord must serve this form before starting a court action.
  • Example: If your rent was due on June 1 and you have not paid by June 5, the park owner may serve you a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate as per Wisconsin Court Forms.
• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (28-Day Notice)
  • When it's used: If you're being evicted for reasons other than nonpayment (such as violating community rules), the park owner must provide at least a 28-Day Notice.
  • Example: If you have a repeated noise complaint, the park operator must give you written notice at least 28 days before filing an eviction action.
  • Refer to the Wisconsin Court Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center for forms and instructions.
• Summons and Complaint for Eviction
  • When it's used: If you do not comply with a notice, the park owner must file this with the appropriate circuit court for a formal eviction. You will be officially served this paperwork and given a court date.
  • Example: If the 5- or 28-day notice period ends with no action or resolution, this form starts the legal eviction process (see the Wisconsin Eviction Forms).

Remember: Landlords must follow all required notice periods and court procedures. Eviction is not legal without a court order.

How Eviction Hearings Work in Wisconsin

Eviction cases for mobile home park residents are usually handled by the Wisconsin Circuit Court System in the county where the park is located. You have the right to attend the court hearing and present your case. If the court rules in favor of eviction, you will be given additional time (usually no less than 60 days if you own your mobile home) to move your home off the site or make arrangements.^{[2](#footnote2)}

Action Steps if You Receive an Eviction Notice

• Read the notice carefully and check the reason and notice period.
• Contact your park owner to clarify issues or resolve disputes, if possible.
• Gather records—such as payment receipts, lease agreement, and any communication.
• Respond to court papers—do not ignore official documents; missing your hearing may lead to automatic eviction.
• Contact legal services or the state’s renter support programs for free advice (see resources below).

If you disagree with the eviction or feel your rights are being violated, you may file a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) – Landlord-Tenant Program.^{[3](#footnote3)}

Wisconsin Tenant Rights Legislation

The main law protecting mobile home owners who rent their site is Wisconsin Statutes 710.15, with additional rights in Chapter 704: Landlord and Tenant.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me without written notice?
   No. Wisconsin law requires mobile home park operators to provide written notice before starting an eviction process, with specific timeframes based on the reason.
2. How much time do I get to move my home after an eviction?
   If you own your mobile home, you typically have at least 60 days after a court-ordered eviction to move your home, unless the court provides a different timeframe.
3. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Read the notice, review the timeframe, gather documents, communicate with your landlord if possible, and seek legal assistance. You may also contest the notice in court.
4. Are there resources for free legal help in Wisconsin?
   Yes. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and Legal Action of Wisconsin offer free assistance for renters and mobile home owners.
5. What rights do I have if the park wants to close or change use?
   The park owner must give you at least 120 days' notice and follow specific state procedures. You may be eligible for relocation assistance; refer to Wis. Stat. § 710.15(5) for details.

Key Takeaways for Mobile Home Owners

• You are protected by specific Wisconsin statutes and cannot be evicted from your mobile home site without cause and proper notice.
• If faced with an eviction, always attend court hearings and seek help from the state's consumer protection programs.
• Official forms and procedures must be followed by your park owner; do not move out until a court has issued an order.

Being prepared with knowledge of your rights can help you navigate any eviction process and access needed support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin DATCP Landlord-Tenant Program: Consumer resources and complaint form
• Wisconsin Circuit Court System: File or respond to an eviction
• Legal Action of Wisconsin: Free legal help
• Wisconsin State Bar Lawyer Referral Service

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1. See Wisconsin Statutes § 710.15 – Mobile Home Parks: Eviction and Rights.
2. See Wisconsin Circuit Courts eviction resources.
3. For renter complaints, visit the Wisconsin DATCP Landlord-Tenant Program.

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