Wisconsin landlord repair timeline
How long does a landlord in Wisconsin have to repair?
The clock most states set starts at the tenant’s written notice. Here is what the statute says, with the official source. It is general information, not legal advice.
- What it sets
- Not set by statute: rent abates while a unit is untenantable, and the tenant may move out if repairs aren’t made promptly
- Statute
- Stat. 704.07
- Official source
- Wisconsin Statutes 704.07
Not an emergency service. For a fire, a gas leak or anyone in danger, call 911 or the gas utility.
What Wisconsin law says, line by line
Each line restates the text it cites. Check the current version before you rely on it.
The repair duties apply to every residential tenancy, and an agreement to waive them is void.
Stat. 704.07(1)The landlord keeps equipment for agreed services, such as heat, water, an elevator or air conditioning, in reasonable repair.
Stat. 704.07(2)(a)2Before signing or taking a deposit, the landlord discloses known code violations that significantly threaten the prospective tenant’s health or safety.
Stat. 704.07(2)(bm)When a condition affects health or safety, rent abates to the extent the tenant loses use of the unit, but rent can’t be withheld in full while the tenant stays.
Stat. 704.07(4)
Checked October 21, 2026
Turn the statute into your own response times
City rules and your leases can be stricter than the state. Write your times as the strictest of the three.
- Count from when the tenant told you, because many deadlines start at notice
- Put heat, water, power and anything dangerous at the top, day or night
- Ask for notice in writing, and reply in writing, so the record exists if anyone asks
- Record every step with a time: the first reply, the booking, the visit and the confirmation
A question managers ask about Wisconsin
No. Section 704.07(4) abates rent only to the extent the tenant is deprived of normal use, and says it does not authorize withholding rent in full while the tenant stays.
Managing in another state? Pick it hereThe same leak can have a different clock across a state line.
The clock starts at the tenant’s notice Ours answers at any hour