Mobile Home Park Tenant Rights and Rules in Wisconsin

Renting a space in a Wisconsin mobile home park comes with unique rights and responsibilities for both tenants and park operators. As a resident, it's vital to know the rules that apply to your park, how rent or rules can be changed, what protections you have from eviction, and where to turn for official help. This guide explains Wisconsin's key laws and procedures, so you can make informed decisions and ensure your home is secure.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, mobile home parks must provide clear, written rules covering park operations, common areas, and tenant behavior. These rules apply to all tenants and should be fair, reasonable, and consistently enforced.

• Rules must be delivered in writing when you sign a rental agreement.
• If park rules change, tenants must be given at least 28 days’ written notice before changes take effect.
• Common topics include parking, pets, noise, property maintenance, and use of shared facilities.

For full details, see the Wisconsin Statutes Section 710.15: Regulation of Mobile Home Parks.^[1]

Your Rights as a Mobile Home Park Tenant

Wisconsin law protects mobile and manufactured homeowners who rent lots in a park. Your main rights include:

• The right to a written rental agreement, including park rules
• Protection from unfair eviction: You cannot be evicted without proper notice and a valid reason defined by law
• The right to written notice of rent increases or rule changes (at least 28 days in advance)
• The right to peaceful enjoyment of your home without harassment

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Nonpayment of rent (with proper notice and opportunity to cure late payments)
• Violation of park rules (after written warning and opportunity to correct)
• Serious violations such as criminal activity, or substantial damage to property

For details on eviction, see the Wisconsin Eviction Law (Section 704.17).^[2]

Rent Increases and Lease Renewal

Your lease should clearly state your current rent and terms for renewal. Park owners must provide at least 28 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect, usually at the end of your rental term.

• If you’re on a month-to-month lease: a 28-day written notice is required for increases
• Fixed-term (year-long) leases: Rent typically cannot increase until renewal unless your agreement allows it

Required Official Forms for Wisconsin Mobile Home Park Tenants

• Notice of Termination of Tenancy – 28-Day Notice
  If the park owner needs to end your tenancy, they must provide a written 28-Day Notice.^[3]
  Example: If you receive a 28-day notice, this document starts the official end of tenancy process. Review it carefully and keep a copy for your records.
• 5-Day Notice to Cure or Vacate (for nonpayment or correctable rule violations)
  The landlord should use a legal notice—often called a "5-Day Notice"—to give you a chance to fix an issue or pay rent. This must be in writing.
  Example: If you’re behind on rent, you may receive this notice. You have five days to pay overdue rent or correct the problem to avoid eviction proceedings. See Wisconsin Form SC-512.^[4]

Always review notices and keep copies. For official forms, visit the Wisconsin Court System Civil Forms.

Trouble with Park Management? How to File a Complaint

If you believe your rights are being violated, you can file a complaint or take legal action. In Wisconsin, mobile home park disputes are often resolved through the local circuit court system.^[5] Before filing, try to resolve the issue directly with your park management in writing.

• Document all communications, notices, and agreements
• If the issue is not resolved, you may use court forms (such as a small claims action) to initiate your case

Where to Find Wisconsin Mobile Home Laws and Protections

For up-to-date, full legal protections for renters in mobile home communities, see:

• Wisconsin Statutes Section 710.15 – Mobile Home Parks Regulation
• Wisconsin Department of Administration: Manufactured/Mobile Home Park Regulations
• Wisconsin Courts Self-Help: Landlord-Tenant Issues

Understanding your options puts you in a stronger position to resolve disputes and safeguard your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my mobile home park raise my rent at any time?
   Park owners must give you at least 28 days’ written notice before increasing rent, and changes typically take effect at the end of your lease term.
2. What is the process if I get an eviction notice in my Wisconsin mobile home park?
   You must receive written notice (like a 5-Day or 28-Day Notice), and you have the opportunity to pay rent or fix most rule violations before eviction court proceedings begin.
3. Where do I file a formal complaint against a mobile home park owner?
   Most disputes are heard in the Wisconsin circuit courts. You start by filing with the court in the county where your park is located.
4. Are mobile home park rules enforceable immediately after they are changed?
   No. Rule changes require at least 28 days’ written notice to tenants before taking effect.
5. Where can I find official forms to respond to notices?
   Official Wisconsin court forms are available at the Wisconsin Circuit Court forms page.

Key Takeaways for Mobile Home Park Tenants

• Wisconsin requires written rules, notice of changes, and fair procedures for rent or eviction in mobile home parks.
• Always demand notice in writing and keep copies of all communications.
• Use official resources and local courts to protect your rights if disputes arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Department of Administration: Manufactured/Mobile Home Parks Regulations
• Wisconsin Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center
• Find your local tribunal: Wisconsin Circuit Courts
• Reference and download forms: Wisconsin Circuit Court Forms

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1. Wisconsin Statutes § 710.15
2. Wisconsin Statutes § 704.17
3. Wisconsin 28-Day Notice to Vacate
4. Wisconsin Court Form SC-512 (5-Day Notice)
5. Wisconsin Circuit Courts – Residential Tenancy Disputes

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