How to Request and Get Repairs as a Renter in Wisconsin

Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Wisconsin published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Wisconsin

If you’re a renter in Wisconsin and something in your home needs repair—whether it’s a leaky pipe, unsafe wiring, or no heat in winter—knowing the right way to ask for repairs is crucial. Wisconsin law protects your right to a safe, livable rental, but you must follow certain steps when making repair requests. This guide explains what to do to make sure your repair requests get the attention—and results—you deserve, all under Wisconsin landlord-tenant law.

Your Rights to Repairs and a Habitable Home

Wisconsin law requires landlords to keep rental units safe, healthy, and in good repair. This includes working plumbing, heating, and security features. Your landlord cannot ignore serious repair needs that impact your health or safety. The key is knowing your rights and the proper way to notify your landlord and document your requests.

What Repairs Is Your Landlord Responsible For?

  • Heating, water, and plumbing systems
  • Electrical wiring and fixtures
  • Structural issues (like leaky roofs or broken windows)
  • Common area maintenance (hallways, laundry rooms)
  • Mold, pest infestations, or sanitation hazards

Landlords must maintain the rental in "fit and habitable condition," as required by Wis. Stat. § 704.07. Cosmetic issues, like repainting or minor scuffs, may not be legally required but serious repairs affecting safety are.

How to Make a Repair Request That Gets Results

Following a clear process will help ensure your repair request is taken seriously and documented. Here’s what you should do:

  • Inspect and document the problem. Take photos or videos for your records.
  • Notify your landlord in writing. While you can call, Wisconsin law recommends putting requests in writing (email, letter, or a repair request form).
  • Keep a copy of all communications for your records.
  • If urgent (examples: no heat in winter, broken locks, sewage leak), state clearly that the situation affects health or safety.

Written requests help create a "paper trail"—essential if the issue later needs to be reported to state authorities or taken to court.

Sample Form: Wisconsin Rental Repair Request

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) provides an official sample repair request letter. This template guides you in describing the issue, expected resolution time, and your contact details.

  • Form name: Sample Repair Request Letter (no number)
  • When to use: Use this form whenever you need to formally request a repair from your landlord.
  • Practical tip: Email or mail the completed form and retain a copy with the sending date for your records.

What If Repairs Aren’t Made?

If the landlord does not respond within a "reasonable time," you have more options. In most cases, reasonable time means 24-48 hours for emergencies, or 14-30 days for non-emergency repairs.

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You could:

  • Contact DATCP’s Landlord-Tenant Protection Section to file a formal complaint.
  • If you wish to withhold rent or repair-and-deduct, seek legal advice first. Wisconsin law does not automatically allow rent withholding unless a court approves it.
  • Apply to the local housing code office or building inspector if the issue violates local safety codes.
Tip: Always follow up written requests with calls or emails as needed, and document dates of every contact for your protection.

Filing a Tenant Complaint with Wisconsin DATCP

  • Form name: Landlord Tenant Complaint Form (Form No. TR-LT-102)
  • How to use: If the landlord doesn’t respond or refuses to fix the issue, complete this form and submit it to DATCP. Describe your repair issue, attach proof, and copies of your written requests.
  • Landlord Tenant Complaint Form (TR-LT-102) – DATCP Official Source

DATCP will investigate your complaint, mediate between you and your landlord, and advise on next legal steps.

Which Wisconsin Authority Handles Tenant Complaints?

The main state agency for renter-landlord issues is the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). If your matter concerns local building safety, your city’s housing inspector may also get involved.

For serious unresolved disputes, small claims court in your county may handle damage claims or orders for repairs.

Wisconsin Maintenance and Repair Laws Explained

These laws make it clear: landlords must keep rentals habitable, but renters must follow proper steps when reporting issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to fix urgent repairs?
    Document your requests, use the repair letter template, and file a Tenant Complaint Form with DATCP if there’s no response within a reasonable period.
  2. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made in Wisconsin?
    Wisconsin law does not allow tenants to withhold rent or repair-and-deduct unless a court orders it. Seek legal help before taking these actions.
  3. How fast must my landlord fix repairs?
    They must act within a reasonable time: 24-48 hours for emergencies, or 14-30 days for non-urgent repairs. Response times may depend on the local situation and severity.
  4. What forms should I use for repair requests?
    Start with the Sample Repair Request Letter. If needed, use the DATCP Landlord Tenant Complaint Form (TR-LT-102).
  5. Does DATCP enforce repairs directly?
    DATCP investigates and mediates complaints, but cannot order repairs directly. If problems persist, small claims court or local building inspectors may help enforce compliance.

Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Renters

  • Put all repair requests in writing for legal protection
  • Use Wisconsin’s official forms and keep detailed records
  • If landlords don’t act, DATCP and local authorities provide investigation and support

Understanding your rights and proper procedures empowers you to maintain a safe, habitable home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant
  2. Wisconsin DATCP Landlord-Tenant Program
  3. DATCP Landlord-Tenant Resources and Forms

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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