When Can Wisconsin Landlords Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

If you're renting in Wisconsin, understanding when and how your landlord can increase your rent is crucial—especially when it comes to pass-through costs. Pass-through costs are expenses a landlord pays (like property taxes or utility upgrades) that may be passed on to tenants as rent increases. This guide explains when such increases are allowed under Wisconsin law, your rights as a renter, and steps you can take if you have concerns.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs refer to specific expenses a landlord incurs that, under certain circumstances, may be added to a tenant’s rent. In other states with rent control, these can include things like building improvements, property taxes, or municipal fees. However, Wisconsin law gives landlords broad discretion in rent setting—but also requires them to follow strict notice rules.

Wisconsin Law on Rent Increases & Pass-Through Costs

In Wisconsin, there is no statewide rent control. Landlords generally can increase rent to account for higher costs (including pass-through costs) as long as they:

• Wait until the lease period ends unless the lease allows increases during the term
• Give proper written notice—usually at least 28 days for month-to-month tenancies (Wisconsin Statutes § 704.19)
• Do not discriminate or retaliate against tenants

There are no limits on the amount of rent increase in most cities, unless your city has passed specific ordinances (very uncommon in Wisconsin).

Required Notice for Rent Increases

Wisconsin law requires a landlord to provide a written notice of rent increase at least 28 days before the new amount takes effect for periodic (month-to-month) tenants. For fixed-term leases (like 12 months), landlords usually cannot raise rent until the lease expires, unless the contract specifically allows mid-term increases for pass-through costs.

Disputing a Rent Increase

If you believe a rent increase—including one attributed to pass-through costs—is unfair, not allowed by your lease, or given without proper notice, you have rights:

• Review your lease agreement for clauses about rent increases or pass-through expenses
• Request documentation from your landlord showing the specific costs being passed through
• Contact the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Landlord-Tenant Program for help

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• 28-Day Notice of Rent Increase (no official state number):
  Landlords should use this form to inform month-to-month tenants about a rent increase. If you receive this notice, review it carefully and check your lease to ensure it's valid.
  See sample notice in the DATCP Landlord-Tenant Guide (p. 36)
• Tenant Complaint Form (DATCP):
  Use this form if you believe your landlord has not followed proper procedures for a rent increase or has engaged in unfair practices. File with DATCP.
  Download the DATCP Tenant Complaint Form

For most disputes about rent increases, start by talking with your landlord, but don't hesitate to use these official forms if you need to formally document your complaint.

Who Oversees Rent Issues in Wisconsin?

Residential landlord-tenant disputes in Wisconsin are handled primarily by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Landlord-Tenant Program. Local municipal housing authorities may also offer support and mediation.

Relevant Legislation

• Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant
• Section 704.19 – Termination of tenancies, written notice, and rent increases
• Section 66.101 – Municipal Housing Powers

These laws set out the legal rules for notices, rent adjustments, and tenant protections in Wisconsin.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time in Wisconsin?
   For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give at least 28 days’ written notice before an increase. For fixed-term leases, rent usually cannot be increased until the lease ends—unless your lease allows increases during the term.
2. Does Wisconsin have rent control or limits on pass-through costs?
   No. Wisconsin does not limit rent increases or pass-through costs, but landlords must give written notice and follow anti-discrimination and retaliation rules.
3. What should a rent increase notice include?
   The notice should clearly state the amount of the new rent, when it takes effect, and must be given with at least 28 days of advance notice for month-to-month tenants.
4. What if I believe the rent increase is unfair or in violation of my lease?
   Keep documentation, check your lease for relevant clauses, and consider filing a complaint with DATCP if you think your rights were violated.
5. Where can I get official help with a rent dispute in Wisconsin?
   Contact DATCP’s Landlord-Tenant Program or your local municipal housing authority for guidance and complaint processes.

Key Takeaways

• In Wisconsin, landlords can increase rent—including for pass-through costs—with proper notice and by following lease terms.
• There is no rent control in Wisconsin, but strong notice requirements apply.
• If you receive a rent increase, review your lease, keep records, and reach out to official agencies for support if needed.

Staying informed and understanding your lease agreement helps protect your rights as a Wisconsin renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Landlord-Tenant Resources: Information, complaint forms, and guides for renters
• DATCP Tenant Complaint Form: To file a grievance about a rent increase or landlord practice
• Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704: State laws governing landlords and tenants
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Wisconsin Rental Help

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1. Wisconsin Statutes § 704.19 – Termination of Tenancies and Rent Increases
2. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 – Landlord and Tenant
3. DATCP Landlord-Tenant Resources

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