Your complete guide to renter protections in Madison, WI. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Wisconsin state protections.
No
Rent Control
21
Days to Return Deposit
No limit
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Madison does not have local rent control. Wisconsin state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Madison may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Wisconsin law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Madison-specific laws and ordinances
Madison rental inspection program for all rental properties
City equal opportunities ordinance for housing discrimination
Wisconsin state law provides strong deposit and habitability protections
Local ordinances work alongside Wisconsin state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Wisconsin state protections.
Laws that apply to all Wisconsin renters
Max Security Deposit
No limit
Deposit Return Deadline
21 days
Entry Notice Required
12 hours
Governing Statute
Wisconsin Statutes
Common questions about renting in Madison
No, Madison does not currently have local rent control. Wisconsin state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
Wisconsin does not set a statutory cap on security deposits. However, landlords must return deposits within 21 days of move-out.
Madison tenants benefit from several protections: Madison rental inspection program for all rental properties; City equal opportunities ordinance for housing discrimination; Wisconsin state law provides strong deposit and habitability protections. These are in addition to Wisconsin state law.
You can contact the Madison local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Wisconsin attorney general's office for state-level violations.
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Contact the Madison housing authority for local assistance, complaints, and Section 8 programs.
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