Wisconsin Month-to-Month Lease Agreement

Month-to-Month Leases in Wisconsin (WI)

Leases for a short period still require a written agreement between the Tenant and Owner for clear documentation and legal protection. The Wisconsin (WI) Month-to-Month Lease Agreement establishes a month-to-month tenancy per Wisconsin Statutes § 704. The tenancy will be month-to-month until either the Tenant or Owner terminates the contract with a twenty-eight (28) day written notice. 

Lease Termination & Renewal

• The Tenant or Owner can terminate this lease with a twenty-eight (28) day written notice as mandated by Wisconsin (WI) law. 
• The lease automatically renews each month unless terminated. 
• During the automatic renewal period, all terms and conditions of the initial agreement remain in effect unless mutually modified by both parties.

Rent Increases

• Wisconsin (WI) law specifies a notice period for rent increases. While no state law limits the amount of a rent increase, Owners must provide a 28-day written notice to Tenants before implementing any change in rent. It should clearly state the new rent amount and the date it will take effect.

Security Deposit

These terms and conditions are related to security deposits for this lease agreement, adhering to Wisconsin Statutes.

• The Tenant shall pay a Security Deposit typically equal to one month’s rent. However, there are no laws in WI limiting the deposit amount to be applied to the Tenant. 
• Upon lease termination, the Owner will refund the Security Deposit (in whole or part) within 21 days. 
• The Owner may deduct unpaid rent, late fees, utilities, or damage over and above normal wear and tear from the deposit.
• Landlords must furnish a detailed breakdown of deductions within 21 days of tenant departure.

Tenant Rights

This section outlines the fundamental rights and responsibilities governing the parties’ interaction, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and promoting a harmonious tenancy.

• Safe and Livable Environment: The Owner shall guarantee the safety and habitability of the premises, including maintaining operational plumbing, heating, and electrical utilities. 
• Fair and Respectful Treatment: The Tenant is protected from discrimination based on personal characteristics like race, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, disability, family status, age, or source of income. 
• Eviction Proceedings: Eviction can only happen for specific reasons outlined in the lease agreement and state law, such as non-payment of rent, property damage, or severe lease violations. 

Required Disclosures in Wisconsin (WI)

This section of the Wisconsin (WI) Month-to-Month Lease Agreement outlines essential disclosures regarding tenancy to ensure transparency and protect both parties. These disclosures are vital for Wisconsin tenancies to ensure tenant safety, foster clear communication, and uphold legal responsibilities, covering aspects from lead paint to property access and landlord information. 

• Lead-Based Paint: Federal law mandates disclosing the presence of lead-based paint for properties built before 1978.
• Landlord Identity and Contact Information: Clearly state the landlord’s or authorized property manager’s name and contact information.
• Building Information: Disclose any known defects or issues with the property’s condition, such as structural problems, plumbing leaks, or electrical faults.
• Access to Property: Specify under what conditions the landlord or their representatives may enter the property, such as for repairs, inspections, or showings to prospective tenants.
• Housing Code Violations: As per WI laws, the landlord must disclose all past housing code violations.
• Utilities: The landlord must state if utilities are included in the rent or if they are paid by the Tenant.
• Shared Utilities: Landlord must indicate if there are any shared utilities on the property.
• Check-In Checklist: A Tenant must be provided with a detailed checklist, if requested for documenting the condition of the rental unit at the time of the initial inspection.
• Preexisting Damages: This disclosure is applicable if a security deposit is required for the rental property. The Owner has to give the Tenant notice that they may inspect the property for any damages from the previous tenants. If any damages are found, the Tenant may request an itemized list of damages that may then be deducted from the previous tenant’s security deposit.
• Domestic Abuse: The Owner will provide a notice of protection against domestic abuse.
• Non-standard Provisions: This disclosure is only applicable to rental agreements where the Landlord and Tenant have agreed on non-standard provisions.