Wisconsin Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Laws Explained

If you rent a lot or a home in a mobile home park in Wisconsin, it's important to understand your rights regarding rent increases. Mobile home park tenants are protected by state law, and knowing the rules can help you respond to unexpected changes in your housing costs.

Are There Limits on Rent Increases in Wisconsin Mobile Home Parks?

Unlike some states, Wisconsin law does not set a specific cap on how much a landlord can raise rent in mobile home parks. However, there are important rules about how and when rent can be increased:

  • Advance written notice is required: Park operators must give at least 28 days written notice before raising rent.
  • No mid-lease increases: If you have a lease for a set term, rent can't increase until your lease ends unless your agreement allows it.
  • Rent must be applied fairly: Increases must be applied consistently to all similar lots or units.

These rules aim to provide stability and prevent discrimination, but they don't limit the dollar amount of an increase. You can read the full rules in the Wisconsin Statutes § 710.15 (Manufactured and Mobile Home Communities).1

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

To be enforceable, a rent increase:

  • Must be given in writing
  • Must specify the new rent amount and the effective date, which must be at least 28 days after notice is given
  • Must be delivered to the tenant or posted at the tenant's home

Verbal notices or notices with less than 28 days' warning are not valid.

What to Do If You Receive a Rent Increase Notice

If you receive a rent increase notice, review it carefully for:

  • The correct effective date (at least 28 days from the notice)
  • Whether the increase aligns with your lease terms
  • Consistency with increases to other residents
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If you believe your rent increase is discriminatory, not uniformly applied, or you did not receive proper notice, you have the right to take action. Contacting your landlord in writing to clarify details is a good first step.

How to Challenge Unfair Rent Increases

If you think your rent increase violates Wisconsin law or your lease agreement, you may:

You have the right to a written explanation for any rent increase and can request one from your landlord in writing.

Relevant Official Forms and How To Use Them

  • DATCP Consumer Complaint Form (No number)
    When to use: If you receive a rent increase you believe is unfair or not properly noticed.
    Example: Your rent was raised with less than 28 days' notice. Download the DATCP Consumer Complaint Form, fill in details of your situation, and submit it as directed. 3
  • Mobile Home Parks: Tenant-Landlord Guide
    When to use: For general understanding of rental rights and documentation needed to support a complaint. Find it at the DATCP resources page.2

Tribunal or Board Handling Disputes

In Wisconsin, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) handles complaints related to manufactured home parks and tenant-landlord issues.

If mediation or resolution through DATCP is not successful, disputes may proceed to small claims court. See Wisconsin courts guidance on landlord-tenant small claims.4

FAQ: Wisconsin Rent Increase Rules for Mobile Home Parks

  1. Is there a limit to how much my landlord can increase rent in a Wisconsin mobile home park?
    There is no maximum limit set by state law, but park operators must give at least 28 days' written notice and apply increases fairly to all similar homes or lots.
  2. What should I do if my landlord doesn't give proper notice for a rent increase?
    You can request they follow the law, and if the issue is not resolved, you may file a complaint with DATCP using their official form.
  3. Can my landlord raise my rent in the middle of a lease term?
    No. Unless your lease specifically allows for mid-term increases, rent can only be changed at the end of your lease term or with your written agreement.
  4. How do I file a complaint about a rent increase?
    Download and complete the Consumer Complaint Form and submit it to DATCP by mail or online as directed on their website.
  5. Where can I find Wisconsin statutes about mobile home park rent increases?
    Read Wisconsin Statutes § 710.15 on manufactured and mobile home communities.

Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Mobile Home Park Renters

  • No legal limit exists for rent increase amounts, but written notice of at least 28 days is always required.
  • You can challenge improper or discriminatory increases by filing a complaint with DATCP.
  • Leases protect you from mid-term increases unless agreed otherwise.

Staying informed about your rights makes it easier to handle unexpected changes in your rental costs and take action if necessary.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. See Wisconsin Statutes § 710.15: Manufactured and mobile home communities
  2. DATCP Manufactured Home Community Tenants Resources
  3. DATCP Consumer Complaint Form
  4. Wisconsin Courts Self-Help: Landlord/Tenant
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

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