When The Landlord Can Come In
Wis. Stat. 704.05 — advance notice and reasonable times, unless an absent tenant's premises need protecting
Until the lease runs out or a periodic tenancy or tenancy at will ends, and so long as the tenant is not in default, a Wisconsin tenant has the right to exclusive possession of the premises.
Advance notice, at reasonable times. The landlord may enter upon advance notice and at reasonable times to inspect, to make repairs, and to show the premises to prospective tenants or purchasers.
Without notice, only one case. If the tenant is absent and the landlord reasonably believes entry is necessary to preserve or protect the premises, the landlord may enter without notice and with such force as appears necessary.
These rules apply in the absence of an inconsistent provision in writing signed by both the landlord and the tenant. The same section bars the tenant from making physical changes, including decorating, without the landlord's prior consent.
Sources for this section (1)
- Wis. Stat. 704.05 — Rights and duties of landlord and tenant in absence of written agreement to contrary
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Wisconsin attorney.