Landlord Entry
The landlord of your apartment cannot enter without advance notice, and they can only enter at reasonable times and for certain purposes.
How much notice is required for a landlord to enter my rental unit?
Landlords cannot enter an apartment unless they give at least 12 hours notice to the tenant. Notice may be verbal (including leaving a message) or in writing. There is no requirement that the tenant actually receive that notice (for example, during an extended absence).[ATCP 134.09(2)].
What are the reasons my landlord can enter my rental unit?
State law permits landlords to enter a rental unit only for the following purposes[Wis. Stat. 704.05 (2), ATCP 134.09(2)(a)1.]:
- to inspect (ex. a routine inspection, to check out a problem prior to making requested repairs, or to inspect for occupancy)
- to make repairs, including required maintenance requested by or promised to a tenant, or
- to show the premises to prospective tenants or buyers.
A landlord may only enter without advance notice under the following circumstances:
- if the tenant, knowing the proposed time of entry, requests or consents to the entry
- if a “health or safety emergency” exists
- to protect the premises from damage when the tenant is absent (ATCP 134 does not define a “health or safety emergency).
Announce and Identify
Before entering, the landlord must announce his or her presence to persons in the unit and identify him or herself upon request.[ATCP 134.09(2)(d), MGO 32.05(1)(f), FO 28.05(1)(f)].