How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Wisconsin

If you're a renter in Wisconsin and facing issues such as unaddressed repairs, improper rent increases, or unfair eviction threats, understanding your rights—and how to formally raise a complaint—can help you protect yourself. Wisconsin law offers specific paths for tenants to report landlord actions that break the rules. This guide walks you through the process for filing a complaint against your landlord in Wisconsin, including forms, contact details, and your legal protections under state law.

Understanding Your Rights as a Wisconsin Renter

Wisconsin renters are protected under the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant as well as Wisconsin Administrative Code ATCP 134 – Residential Rental Practices. These laws cover:

• Timely repairs and maintenance requirements
• Procedures for rent increases and security deposits
• Your rights regarding notices, entry, and eviction

If you believe your landlord has violated any of these laws, you may file a complaint to get help or seek enforcement.

When and Why to File a Complaint

Common reasons for filing a complaint against a landlord in Wisconsin include:

• Refusal to make essential repairs affecting health or safety
• Unlawful retention of a security deposit after moving out
• Discrimination based on race, religion, family status, or disability
• Improper eviction or illegal entry

Address any issue first by writing to your landlord and keeping a record. If a resolution isn't reached, formal complaints can help enforce your rights.

How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Wisconsin

Follow these steps for most rental issues:

• Document your issue: Save correspondence, photos, and records of the problem.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Clearly ask for the issue to be resolved and give a reasonable deadline.
• If unresolved, file a formal complaint: Choose the right agency based on your issue.

1. For Repairs, Security Deposits, and Most Rental Practices: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)

The Wisconsin DATCP oversees most rental complaints about unsafe conditions, repairs, or illegal fees. File a complaint using:

• Form Name: Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (No number)
• Example: If your landlord refuses to fix your furnace in winter, use this form after written requests haven't worked.
• Download the official Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form

How to File:

1. Fill out the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form.
2. Attach any proof (letters, emails, photos).
3. Submit by email, mail, or fax as directed on the form.

2. For Housing Discrimination: Wisconsin Equal Rights Division or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

If you suspect discrimination, contact the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division (ERD) or file a federal complaint through HUD.

• Form Name (ERD): Equal Rights Complaint Form (ERD-10210-E)
• Example: If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of your disability or family status, use this form.
• Download the Equal Rights Complaint Form (ERD-10210-E)
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Wisconsin?

There is no single "landlord-tenant board" in Wisconsin. For rental complaints, the main regulatory body is the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Discrimination complaints may also be handled by the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division or federal HUD authorities.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

The agency will review your documents, may contact your landlord to mediate, and might offer guidance or enforcement options. Some cases can lead to formal investigations or potential legal action. For urgent safety issues, local health departments may step in.

FAQ: Wisconsin Renter Complaints

1. Can I be evicted for filing a complaint?
   Retaliatory eviction (eviction as punishment for asserting your rights or filing complaints) is illegal under Wisconsin law.^[1]
2. How long does it take to resolve a landlord complaint?
   Timelines vary, but most DATCP investigations or mediations take several weeks.
3. What if my landlord is harassing me?
   Document incidents and report them to the DATCP; police intervention may be needed for threats or violence.
4. Can I file complaints if I rent a single room or non-traditional housing?
   Yes, most Wisconsin tenant protections apply to all residents, but some exemptions may exist—check with DATCP if unsure.
5. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
   No, you can file most complaints without a lawyer, but legal help is available if needed.

Conclusion

• Wisconsin offers several ways to formally address landlord issues, including official complaint forms and agency support.
• Protect your rights by communicating in writing, keeping records, and choosing the correct agency for your complaint.
• Legal protections exist to prevent retaliation against tenants who assert their rights.

Knowing how and where to file a complaint can help ensure your rental home is safe and fair.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP): Main agency for rental complaints and information. Phone: (800) 422-7128
• Wisconsin Equal Rights Division: Handles discrimination complaints.
• HUD Fair Housing Information: Information and complaint filing for federal housing rights.
• Wisconsin State Bar - Find Legal Help

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1. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 (Landlord and Tenant law)
2. Wisconsin Administrative Code ATCP 134 (Residential Rental Practices)
3. DATCP Landlord-Tenant Consumer Protection resources
4. Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development – Equal Rights Division
5. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Fair Housing

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