Important Lease Addendums for Wisconsin Renters

Before signing a rental agreement in Wisconsin, it's crucial for renters to review not just the main lease but also any additional documents known as lease addendums. These addendums can change or add to your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Here, we break down common addendums used in Wisconsin, how they're regulated, and what to look for to protect yourself according to current state law.

What Are Lease Addendums?

Lease addendums are extra documents or clauses attached to your main rental contract. They can cover new rules, responsibilities, or exceptions that aren't in the core lease. While some addendums are standard, others can be more restrictive or change your tenancy rights. Reviewing them can help you avoid surprises and better understand your obligations as a renter.

Common Lease Addendums in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, property owners often use addendums to clarify rules for tenants. Be sure to read these key examples:

• Pet Addendum: Details rules, deposits, and restrictions related to pets. Required if you plan to keep animals on the property.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Legally required for buildings built before 1978. Ensures tenants are informed about possible lead hazards (EPA resource).
• Security Deposit Addendum: Outlines specific terms for the deposit, including deductions and refund timelines.
• Maintenance Responsibility Addendum: Clarifies whether tenants or landlords handle things like lawn care, snow shoveling, or appliance repairs.
• Right of Entry Addendum: Defines when and how landlords may enter your apartment. Wisconsin law (see "Landlord Entry" in the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704) sets rules, but the lease can provide more detail.
• Shared Utilities Addendum: Explains how between-unit utility costs are billed if not individually metered.
• Smoking Policy Addendum: Lists smoking restrictions on the property, helping avoid misunderstandings.
• Crime-Free Lease Addendum: States rules about illegal activity and possible grounds for eviction if violated, as permitted by law.

Always check that any addendum abides by the Wisconsin laws that protect tenants and landlords. If an addendum tries to waive your core rights or responsibilities under Wisconsin law, it might not be enforceable.

Understanding the Legal Framework for Addendums

Wisconsin rental agreements and lease addendums are governed by the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704: Landlord and Tenant, as well as related administrative codes (Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134), which outline what can and cannot be included in a rental contract.

• Any addendum must be provided in writing and agreed to by both the landlord and tenant.
• Addendums cannot take away your basic rights as a renter outlined in Wisconsin law (for example, the right to notice before entry or protection against retaliation).
• If you're unsure whether an addendum is legal or fair, consult Wisconsin's tenant resources or reach out to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), which handles landlord-tenant questions.

Official Forms Related to Lease Addendums

Although Wisconsin does not have a single "lease addendum" form, several mandatory disclosures and notices may function as addendums. Here are a few examples:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (federal and state required):
  • When used? For leases of properties built before 1978.
  • Example for renters: Your landlord provides a form disclosing any known lead paint and a government pamphlet before you sign your lease.
  • EPA Lead Disclosure Form (official PDF)
• Check-In/Check-Out Condition Report (not mandatory but recommended):
  • When used? At the move-in and move-out stages to document condition for security deposit disputes.
  • Example for renters: Complete this form with your landlord at move-in and keep a copy. It can limit disputes over damage at lease end.
  • Wisconsin Residential Check-In/Check-Out Form (official PDF)

You can find additional sample Wisconsin rental forms at the DATCP Landlord Tenant Guide.

Tips for Reviewing Lease Addendums in Wisconsin

• Read each addendum carefully before signing. Ask questions if anything is unclear.
• Compare addendums to the main lease and state tenant protections. Watch out for conflicts.
• Get all agreements in writing. Never accept verbal changes.
• If an addendum imposes a fee (for pets, utilities, etc.), check that it's allowed under Wisconsin law.
• Keep copies of everything you sign, including all addendums and forms.

If You Experience Issues With Addendums

• First, formally raise your concern in writing to your landlord.
• If unresolved, you can contact the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) - Landlord/Tenant Resources for information or to file a complaint.
• For official tenant complaints, use their online contact system or call 1-800-422-7128.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lease Addendums in Wisconsin

1. Can my landlord add new rules after I sign the lease?
   Usually, both you and your landlord must agree in writing to any changes or new rules after the original lease is signed. Any new addendum added during your lease term should be signed by both parties unless your lease specifically allows changes without agreement.
2. Are any lease addendums illegal in Wisconsin?
   Addendums cannot take away key tenant protections, such as your right to a written notice for eviction or access to services. For example, a landlord cannot use an addendum to waive responsibility for vital repairs required by law.
3. Do I have to accept all proposed addendums?
   No—you have the right to review, negotiate, or reject non-required addendums. Mandatory federal disclosures (like lead paint) must still be provided for your signature.
4. What should I do if an addendum seems unfair?
   Raise the issue with your landlord, and if not resolved, contact DATCP or seek free legal guidance before signing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Renters

• Always read lease addendums closely and keep copies for your records.
• Know that Wisconsin law protects your core rights, even if an addendum suggests otherwise.
• Contact DATCP or trusted advocacy groups with concerns before you sign.

Understanding your lease addendums now can save you from disputes or unexpected costs later on.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) – Landlord/Tenant Resources: Answers questions and investigates complaints.
• Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Guide (official DATCP resource): Clear summaries of tenant rights and sample forms.
• Wisconsin Department of Justice: Landlord-Tenant Rights
• Wisconsin Circuit Court System: Civil Forms for official eviction and housing court processes.

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1. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704: Landlord and Tenant
2. Wisconsin Administrative Code ATCP 134: Residential Rental Practices
3. DATCP Landlord/Tenant Resource Center

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