Wisconsin Lease Renewal: Renter Rights, Deadlines & Tips

If you're renting in Wisconsin, understanding how to renew your lease can help you avoid last-minute surprises like sudden rent increases or even finding yourself without a place to stay. Wisconsin has specific laws and rules on lease renewals, deadlines, and tenant rights that aim to protect both renters and landlords. This guide explains what you need to know to stay informed and make the renewal process straightforward.

Your Rights and Options at Lease Renewal

When your rental lease is nearing its end, both you and your landlord have certain rights and responsibilities set out in Wisconsin law. Most leases in Wisconsin are either fixed-term leases (usually 12 months) or month-to-month rental agreements. The rules differ depending on your agreement.

• Fixed-term leases typically expire on a set date unless you and your landlord agree to renew or extend the lease.
• Month-to-month leases automatically renew each month unless proper notice is given to terminate the agreement.

State law protects your right to receive proper notice and outlines what happens if no action is taken by you or your landlord.

Notice Requirements for Lease Renewal or Non-Renewal

Both you and your landlord must provide written notice if you do not intend to renew a lease, or if changes will be made. Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.19 lays out key requirements for notice periods.¹

• For fixed-term leases: You are not required to provide notice unless your lease says otherwise; the lease simply ends on its expiration date unless renewed.
• For month-to-month or periodic tenancies: Either party must provide at least 28 days’ written notice before the next rental due date to end or change the agreement.
• If your landlord wishes to change the terms (such as raising rent), this change must be communicated with the same notice timeline.

Automatic Renewal Clauses in Wisconsin Leases

Some Wisconsin leases may contain an automatic renewal clause, stating your lease will renew for another full term unless you give written notice within a specified time. State law says this type of clause must be clearly stated and highlighted in the lease agreement. A landlord is required to give you written notice of this clause at least 15–30 days (depending on the lease length) before automatic renewal occurs.¹

Wisconsin Lease Renewal Forms and Notices

There is no single statewide lease renewal form for Wisconsin, but some common forms and written notices include:

• WI Notice of Non-Renewal of Lease: A letter a tenant or landlord sends indicating the lease will not be renewed. There isn’t a mandatory state-provided form, but the notice must include your name, the address, the intent not to renew, and the end date. See Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.19 for details.
• WI Notice of Rent Increase: If the landlord wants to raise the rent for the new term, written notice (usually 28 days for month-to-month) is required. Again, this does not have a specific numbered form, but details are in Section 704.19.
• Renter’s Example: If your lease ends June 30th and you don’t want to renew, deliver a written notice to your landlord following your lease terms—typically at least 28 days before July 1st if on a month-to-month lease. For fixed-term leases, check your contract for any notice clauses; if there are none, the lease ends automatically.

Official forms and lease guidance are usually available from the Wisconsin Department of Administration Landlord/Tenant Resource Center.

What If Your Landlord Won’t Renew or Changes the Terms?

If your landlord decides not to renew your lease or changes major terms (like a significant rent increase), you still have rights:

• Landlords must follow proper notice periods—failure to do so could make a non-renewal or increase invalid.
• You don’t have to accept new terms; you can negotiate, accept, or choose to move out.
• If you feel your rights are being ignored, you can seek help from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) or file a complaint with small claims court if needed.

If you believe a lease change or refusal to renew is discriminatory or retaliatory, consult with the DATCP Landlord-Tenant Resource Page or legal aid.

Tips for a Smooth Lease Renewal in Wisconsin

• Give and request written notice—always keep copies or send via certified mail.
• Communicate early with your landlord, especially if you need to negotiate new terms.
• Document all lease changes in writing and keep signed copies for your records.
• Know your lease terms, including any deadlines for giving notice or automatic renewal clauses.

FAQ: Lease Renewal and Tenant Rights in Wisconsin

1. How much notice do I need to give if I don’t want to renew my Wisconsin lease?
   It depends on your lease type. For most month-to-month leases, 28 days’ written notice before the next rent due date is standard. For fixed-term leases, you usually aren’t required to give notice unless your lease says so.
2. Can my landlord raise my rent at renewal?
   Yes, but only with proper written notice (usually at least 28 days’ notice for month-to-month agreements). Rent increases can only apply at the start of a new lease term unless otherwise stated in your agreement.
3. What should I do if my landlord tries to automatically renew my lease?
   Check your lease for an automatic renewal clause. By law, your landlord must highlight this in your contract and notify you 15–30 days in advance. If needed, provide written notice that you do not wish to renew.
4. Are there official Wisconsin lease renewal forms?
   While there are no statewide numbered forms, written notices must include your name, address, intent not to renew, and date. Templates are available through the state’s landlord-tenant page.
5. Which agency oversees lease disputes or complaints in Wisconsin?
   The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) handles residential tenancy matters and complaints.

Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Renters

• Notice periods and rules depend on your lease type—always read your lease and communicate in writing.
• Rent increases and renewal terms must comply with state notice laws (Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.19).
• For questions or disputes, reach out to the DATCP or use state-provided resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin DATCP Landlord-Tenant Resource Center – Housing complaint forms and tenant rights guide
• Wisconsin Department of Administration Tenant Resources
• For legal questions, consult the Wisconsin State Law Library—Landlord & Tenant Section
• If you believe your rental rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with the DATCP Consumer Protection Bureau

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1. Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.19: Terminating Tenancy: Notice Requirements
2. Wisconsin Department of Administration: Landlord/Tenant Resources
3. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection: Landlord/Tenant Resources

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