Tenant Property Left Behind in Wisconsin: What s. 704.05(5) Allows
Updated
Short answer
Under Wis. Stat. s. 704.05(5), unless a written agreement says otherwise, a landlord may presume that personal property a tenant leaves behind is abandoned and dispose of it as the landlord sees fit. Prescription medication and medical equipment are held 7 days; manufactured homes and titled vehicles need notice first.
- The presumption applies when a tenant removes from the premises or is evicted and leaves property behind.
- Medication and medical equipment: held 7 days from discovery and returned if the tenant asks in that time.
- Mobile or manufactured homes and titled vehicles: written notice of intent to dispose, personally or by certified mail, to the tenant and any secured party.
- A landlord who won't store left-behind property tells tenants in writing when the lease is signed or renewed.
This summarizes the statute and is not legal advice.
For the hauling side, see rental cleanouts. In Madison, buildings of more than 8 units can't use city large item pickup, and TVs at the curb cost $30.
Quick answers
How long must a Wisconsin landlord keep a tenant's medication?
Seven days from discovery under s. 704.05(5), returning it if the tenant asks within that time.
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