What if my landlord doesn't give me all the required disclosures?

Contact your landlord in writing to request the missing information. If unresolved, you can contact the Wisconsin DATCP or seek help from legal aid to enforce your rights or file a formal complaint.

Do I have to pay for previous tenants’ unpaid utility bills?

No. Wisconsin law requires landlords to disclose any past-due utility balances, but you are only responsible for charges from the start of your own tenancy unless you agree otherwise in writing.

What is the Non-Standard Rental Provisions form?

It's a written document that lists changes to the standard lease terms (for example, extra fees or special rules). You must review and initial each term to agree.

Where can I file a complaint about a disclosure violation?

You can file with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Their complaint packet and process are online for renters.

Am I entitled to a move-in inspection checklist?

While not required by law, it's strongly advised to ask for one and document the unit’s condition with photos before moving in for your protection.

Wisconsin Landlord Move-In Disclosures: What Renters Need

Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Wisconsin published: June 21, 2025

Before you move into a rental unit in Wisconsin, landlords are required by state law to provide renters with certain important disclosures. Knowing what information your landlord must share helps protect your rights and ensures a transparent, smooth start to your tenancy.

What Landlords Must Disclose Before Move-In in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has clear disclosure rules meant to keep renters informed about the property and the lease. Here are the key requirements:

Name and Address Disclosure: The landlord must provide the name and address of the person responsible for managing the property and to whom legal notices can be sent. This helps you know who to contact for urgent maintenance, safety issues, or legal matters.
Building Code Violations: If there are any building or housing code violations that could affect your health or safety, or that the landlord has not fixed, you must be told about them in writing. This disclosure should list the violation and clarify if any rent cannot be lawfully collected because of it.
Pending Utility Charges: If you may be responsible for paying certain utilities but there is an outstanding bill on the unit, the landlord must disclose this. This protects you from inheriting past due balances.
Non-Standard Rental Provisions: If your rental agreement includes rules outside the standard lease terms (like special fees or extra responsibilities), these must be mentioned separately, often in a document called a Non-Standard Rental Provisions form. You must acknowledge each change in writing.
Shared Meter Arrangements: If utilities are split using a shared meter, you must be clearly told how these costs are calculated and your share of the bill.
Security Deposit Rules: At move-in, you must be given information about where your security deposit will be held and the conditions for its return.

Most of these rules are outlined in the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704: Landlord and Tenant and detailed in Wisconsin Administrative Code ATCP 134: Residential Rental Practices¹.

Official Forms and Examples for Wisconsin Renters

Some disclosures are given as written notices, while others may use official forms. Here are the most relevant for Wisconsin:

Non-Standard Rental Provisions Form: This form is required if any part of your agreement changes the usual rules for deposits, repairs, late fees, or other terms. You must review and sign this form if used.
Practical Example: If your lease says you’ll be charged for replacing lost keys, this policy must appear on the Non-Standard Rental Provisions form. Find more guidance and sample forms from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Landlord-Tenant Guide.
Initial/Check-In Inspection Checklist: While not mandatory statewide, it is strongly encouraged that landlords provide a move-in inspection checklist. This document helps record the condition of the unit and protect both parties’ interests.
Practical Example: When you move in, you and the landlord check the apartment together and note any existing damage. Both parties sign the checklist and you should keep a copy. More information is available on the DATCP site above.

How to Use These Forms as a Renter

Ask your landlord for all move-in disclosure forms and review them carefully before signing.
Request clarification about any terms or fees you don't understand.
Keep copies of all forms and disclosures for your records.

Who Oversees Rental Housing in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) handles landlord-tenant issues and complaints. DATCP enforces rental laws, provides official resources, and helps resolve disputes. You can read about tenant rights or file a complaint through their Landlord-Tenant Guide or their official complaint form.

If you have any doubt about disclosures, ask for them in writing before you sign the lease. This helps prevent misunderstandings later on.

FAQ: Wisconsin Landlord Disclosures for Renters

What if my landlord doesn't give me all the required disclosures?
If you don't receive key disclosures or forms, you should first make a written request. If disclosures are still missing, you may contact DATCP or a local legal aid group for help, and in some cases you may be able to break your lease without penalty or file a complaint.
Do I have to pay for previous tenants’ unpaid utility bills?
No. Landlords must inform you if there are outstanding utility charges. You are only responsible for utility bills from the start of your tenancy, unless you agree otherwise in writing.
What is the Non-Standard Rental Provisions form?
This is a written list of rules or fees that change the standard lease terms—like extra charges for repairs or early move-out. You must initial each one to show you agree.
Where can I file a complaint about a disclosure violation?
You can file directly with the DATCP using their official complaint packet. This agency enforces rental laws in Wisconsin.
Am I entitled to a move-in inspection checklist?
It's strongly advised but not required by law in most cases. However, insist on one and document your unit’s condition with photos and notes for your own protection.

Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways for Wisconsin Renters

Wisconsin landlords must provide written disclosures on managers, code violations, utilities, and special lease terms before you move in.
Always ask for and keep copies of Non-Standard Rental Provisions forms and any inspection checklists.
The DATCP is your main resource for guidance and complaints on rental laws.

Understanding your rights at move-in helps you start your tenancy on solid ground and avoid surprises later.