Question 1

How much rent can I afford?

Accepted Answer

A widely accepted guideline is to spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. This leaves room for other essential expenses like utilities, groceries, transportation, and savings. If you have significant debt or additional financial responsibilities, consider spending less to maintain a healthy budget. Tools like rent calculators can help you determine what’s affordable based on your specific financial situation.

Rent Affordability Calculator

Question 2

What is a security deposit, and will I get it back?

Accepted Answer

A security deposit is an upfront payment, typically equivalent to one or two months’ rent, intended to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. You’ll get it back at the end of your lease if you leave the property clean, undamaged, and with all lease terms fulfilled. To ensure its return, document the property’s condition during move-in and address any issues before vacating. Landlords are required to provide an itemized deduction list if they keep any part of the deposit.

Question 3

What you should I know before I rent?

Accepted Answer

Before entering a rental agreement or accepting earnest money or a security deposit, landlords must disclose any building or housing code violations they are aware of that affect the rental unit or common areas, present a significant health or safety risk, and have not been fixed, per Wis. Adm. Code s. ATCP 134.04(2).

Landlords must also disclose, according to Wis. Adm. Code s. ATCP 134.04(3):

Whether tenants are responsible for utility payments.
How utility costs are divided if the property is not individually metered.

If a security deposit is required, tenants have 7 days after moving in to inspect the property, note any defects, and return the check-in sheet to the landlord (Wis. Stat. s. 704.08 and Wis. Adm. Code s. ATCP 134.06(1)(a)). Be sure to keep a copy. When inspecting, check lights, outlets, faucets, toilets, smoke detectors, windows, doors, and the condition of appliances like the furnace and water heater.

Link: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Publications/LT-TenantsRights143.aspx

To learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, here is a link to the "Rent Smart" https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/rentsmart/ workshop series helps tenants understand things such as finding a rental, pre-rental inspection, who is responsible for repairs, eviction, effective landlord/tenant communication, and more. The free workshops are held via Zoom and run monthly.

SIGN UP HERE: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=IYOmLNoOCEmIskJKjLSw-b_9ADOuA9dAlPZw3rV-QC5UM1Q3NDdTNVFWQUVDU1FEWUdBUVVPS0M5USQlQCN0PWcu

Question 4

How can I address disputes with my landlord?

Accepted Answer

Disputes between tenants and landlords can happen over issues like repairs, security deposits, rent increases, or lease violations. In Wisconsin, tenants are encouraged to first communicate directly with their landlord in writing to try to resolve the issue. Be clear, polite, and include any supporting documents or photos to explain your concerns. Always keep copies of all written communication.

If the issue isn't resolved, tenants can seek help from several free or low-cost resources:

Tenant Resource Center: Provides free information on tenant rights, mediation services, and sample letters for communicating with landlords.
www.tenantresourcecenter.org
Mediation Services: Many cities, including Milwaukee and Madison, offer housing mediation programs that help landlords and tenants reach a mutual agreement without going to court.
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP): Handles complaints about unfair rental practices, such as improper security deposit withholding or illegal lease terms.
File a complaint here: DATCP Complaint Form
Legal Aid Organizations: Groups like Legal Action of Wisconsin or Wisconsin Judicare provide free legal advice to low-income tenants facing serious disputes or eviction.

If mediation doesn't work or if your landlord is violating the law, tenants can file a claim in Small Claims Court for issues like security deposit disputes or property damage. Taking legal action should be a last resort, but these resources can help guide tenants through the process.

Question 5

How much notice must a landlord give before entering my rental unit?

Accepted Answer

In Wisconsin, landlords are required to provide at least 12 hours' written or verbal notice before entering a tenant's rental unit for non-emergency reasons, such as repairs, inspections, or showings to prospective tenants or buyers. The notice should include the date, time, and reason for entry. Landlords must schedule entry at a reasonable time of day, typically between 8 AM and 8 PM, unless the tenant agrees to another time.

However, landlords do not need to give notice in cases of emergency, such as a burst pipe or fire, or if the tenant requests repairs that require immediate attention. Tenants have the right to refuse entry if the landlord does not follow proper notice procedures, except in emergencies. If a landlord enters without permission or fails to provide notice, tenants can file a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) or seek legal advice.

Link: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/Complaints.aspx

Question 6

Where can I find rental listings and housing resources for all of Milwaukee?

Accepted Answer

If you’re open to nearby areas or want to explore more rental options across Milwaukee, the county offers a centralized housing directory that includes listings from cities throughout the county. It’s a great place to find additional rentals and access countywide housing programs and resources. See the directory for Milwaukee apartments and rentals here.

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