Wauwatosa, WI Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)

Wauwatosa does not run a separate rental-housing habitability code; instead, the structural standard that applies to a rental unit is the same Property Maintenance Code that governs every building in the city. 020 opens by barring any owner from letting a 'building, whether dwelling, nondwelling or accessory' deteriorate below a specific list of conditions. Structural members must be maintained free from deterioration and capable of safely carrying imposed loads. Exterior walls must stay free of holes, breaks, loose or rotting boards, and any condition that would let rain or dampness reach the interior, while foundation walls must be kept plumb, weather tight, rodent proof, insect proof and reasonably watertight.

Roofs and flashing must be sound and tight enough to drain water away from walls and foundations without damage, and gutters and downspouts must be secured and clear. Doors, door frames, hinges and latches must be substantially tight and in sound repair, exterior doors must fit reasonably well in their frames, and every window sash must hold intact glass and fit reasonably tight in its frame. Basement hatchways must be maintained to keep out animals and surface water. These same standards apply regardless of whether the occupant owns or rents; Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. 32 rather than a standalone landlord ordinance. 070's citation and abatement remedies behind it.