MADISON, WI (WHBL) — The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has approved an emergency rule to prohibit late fees or penalties for missed or late rent payments during COVID-19. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development had reported 390,000 people applying for unemployment by mid-month, and some estimates now put the state’s jobless rate at about 19%. Many are now finding it hard to cover rents due to the reduced – or no – income, making the emergency rule necessary.
The rule prevents landlords from charging late fees or penalties for missed or late rent payments during the public health emergency and for 90 days afterward. DATCP will hold a comment period and then a public hearing on this emergency rule via teleconference on May 21st to get more input.
Meanwhile, those with questions or issues related to landlord-tenant agreements can contact the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-422-7128 or file a complaint online at datcp.wi.gov
