How do Late Fees work?
It is legal for a landlord to charge late fees, but all fees must be disclosed in the lease. A common example of late fees pertains to rent. Rent is typically due by the 1st of every month. A landlord… Read More
Legal Assistance
What is a sublease, and do I need permission from my landlord to sublease my room or entire unit?
Many student-tenants seek subleases when their circumstances prevent them from continuing with their lease. Some examples of this include: Studying abroad Financial concerns/inability to pay rent No longer attending the University Roommate concerns that cause you to move. In these… Read More
Can I break my lease?
A landlord may agree to let a tenant out of a lease early. This should be given to the tenant in writing in case a dispute was to come up. If the landlord refuses to let a tenant out of the lease… Read More
I just attended a showing and the landlord told me there are several people looking at the apartment and they expect the apartment to go fast. The landlord recommended we sign the lease right then and there. Should I sign the lease quickly to ensure I get the apartment first?
Never feel pressured to sign something right then and there. If you encounter a landlord that is pressuring you into signing something quickly, walk away! Landlords who pressure you are likely trying to prevent you from noticing something and carefully… Read More
Do people actually read their leases before signing?
Yes, it is always important to read the fine print before signing. UWM’s University Legal Clinic can provide help understanding the lease contract before signing. Since the lease spells out the tenant`s and landlord`s responsibilities, it is important for both… Read More
Are automatic lease renewal provisions enforceable?
Yes, they are enforceable provided the landlord serves the tenants with written notice no more than 30 days and no less than 15 days from the tenant’s option date to renew the lease. A 60-day automatic renewal clause may be… Read More
What will I need if I want to apply for an apartment/house?
All your roommates and co-signers Proof of identity Social security number Checkbook to pay for application fee Anything else the rental company may request – so make sure to ask! If you are unsure about what a landlord is requesting,… Read More
Are there any prohibited or illegal provisions a landlord is not supposed to include in the lease?
Landlords may not have Lease provisions which allow for “self-help” evictions, accelerate the rent remaining on the lease in the event of default, require tenants to pay the landlord’s attorney fees, confess judgment against the tenant, limit the landlord’s liability… Read More
What should be included in the lease agreement?
Landlords must disclose The name and street address of the landlord or agent the tenant is to contact for any issues during the tenancy Any utilities that are not included in the rent and also inform the tenant how the… Read More
What is a rooming house license?
Some landlords have gotten permission from the City of Milwaukee to allow more than 3 unrelated individuals to live in a signal rental unit. There are only a few landlords that have this license. Do not believe a landlord that… Read More