Wisconsin Renters: COVID-19 Eviction Rules in 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic brought major changes to eviction protections for renters in Wisconsin. While most emergency orders have expired, it’s important to know if any eviction protections remain in effect, and what steps you can take if facing eviction. Staying informed can help you protect your rights and navigate housing challenges with confidence.

Current COVID-19 Eviction Rules for Wisconsin Renters

As of 2024, the major federal and state COVID-19 eviction moratoriums in Wisconsin have ended. However, renters still have important legal protections under Wisconsin law—especially if you’re experiencing financial hardship or need time to move after a nonpayment notice.

• The federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) eviction moratorium expired on August 26, 2021.^[1]
• Wisconsin’s state-level orders have also ended, but courts remain open and you still have the right to a legal eviction process.
• Wisconsin landlords must still follow the legal procedures in the Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704 and Chapter 799 Summary Procedures for all evictions.

Key Rights and Procedures

• You cannot be evicted without an official court process—self-help evictions are illegal.
• Most eviction cases still require landlords to provide written notice, such as a 5-day or 14-day notice, depending on the type of lease and reason.
• If you are served court papers, you have the right to attend your eviction hearing at your county’s circuit court.

Wisconsin’s Emergency Rental Assistance Is Now Closed

The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance (WERA) program ended in January 2023. However, local agencies may still offer help, and you may qualify for payment plans if you’re behind on rent.

Essential Eviction Forms for Wisconsin Renters

Understanding official forms can help you navigate the eviction process or respond to landlord actions.

• Five-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (no standard state form, but required by statute):
  When used: If you miss a rent payment, your landlord must give you a 5-day written notice before filing for eviction. This notice gives you a chance to pay your overdue rent or move out.
  Example: If rent is due on the 1st and unpaid, your landlord can give you this notice starting on the 2nd. You then have 5 days to pay or leave.
• Summons and Complaint (Form SC-500):
  When used: If the notice period expires and you haven’t paid or moved, the landlord files this with the court to begin formal eviction proceedings. You are then officially served and have the right to appear at the hearing.
  Example: If you receive this form from the court, it tells you when and where to attend your eviction hearing.
• Answer and Counterclaim (Form SC-520):
  When used: You may use this form to explain your situation, challenge the eviction, or assert your own claims against the landlord.
  Example: After being served with a Summons and Complaint, you can file this answer to raise issues like repairs, payment plans, or other defenses.

Where Are Eviction Hearings Held?

In Wisconsin, residential eviction cases are handled by your local Circuit Court. You can find your county’s court information and contact details at the Wisconsin Court System website.

Which Laws Protect Renters in Wisconsin?

The main laws governing tenants and evictions are:

• Wisconsin Statutes §704 (Landlord and Tenant)
• Wisconsin Statutes §799 (Small Claims and Eviction Procedures)

Can Local Governments Have Their Own Eviction Rules?

Most COVID-19 eviction protections are no longer in place in Wisconsin, but some cities may offer mediation or rental assistance. Always check with local housing authorities for recent updates or programs.

FAQ: Renters and COVID-19 Eviction Protections in Wisconsin

1. Are there any COVID-19 related eviction moratoriums still active in Wisconsin?
   No, all statewide and federal COVID-19 eviction moratoriums have expired. Your landlord must still use legal procedures to evict you.
2. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Read the notice carefully, check the dates, and respond as needed. Try to resolve the issue or file an answer with the court if you disagree. Attend your hearing.
3. Can I use a COVID-19 hardship as a defense in court?
   Certain pandemic-related hardships may be considered if your landlord violated special rules during COVID-19, but most emergency defenses have ended.
4. Is rental assistance still available in Wisconsin?
   The statewide WERA program is closed, but some local agencies or nonprofits may still help with rent or housing issues.
5. Can my landlord lock me out or shut off utilities for unpaid rent?
   No, landlords must follow court eviction processes. Self-help evictions are illegal in Wisconsin.

Conclusion: What Wisconsin Renters Should Remember

• COVID-19 eviction moratoriums have ended, but you retain robust legal rights in the eviction process.
• Always respond promptly to notices and court documents.
• Seek help from official resources if you’re unsure of your situation or need legal assistance.

Staying informed and taking action can make a big difference if you’re facing eviction or rental challenges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Court System – Circuit Court locator, forms, and contact info
• Wisconsin Department of Justice – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• Legal Action of Wisconsin – Free legal help for eligible renters
• State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral & Information Service

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1. CDC’s Federal Eviction Moratorium: CDC COVID-19 Eviction Resources
2. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 704
3. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 799
4. Small Claims/Eviction Forms: SC-500 (Summons and Complaint), SC-520 (Answer and Counterclaim)
5. Wisconsin DOJ Landlord/Tenant Guide

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