RESIDENTIAL RENTAL INSPECTION PAMPHLET ... - City of Wausau
RESIDENTIAL RENTAL INSPECTION PAMPHLET ... - City of Wausau
RESIDENTIAL RENTAL INSPECTION PAMPHLET ... - City of Wausau
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<strong>City</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> Waus<br />
sau, Wisconsinn<br />
Property Maint<br />
tenance &<br />
Information<br />
Tenant<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Inspection and Zoning<br />
Second Floor, <strong>City</strong> Hall<br />
407 Grant Street<br />
<strong>Wausau</strong>, Wisconsi<br />
in 54403<br />
www.ci.wausau.wi.us
Contents<br />
Contact Information .................................................................................................. 3<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong> General Information ........................................................................ 4<br />
Items Requested When Making a Complaint ........................................................... 5<br />
Consumer facts – Don’t Rent Trouble ................................................................... 5-7<br />
Tenant’s Rights<br />
Electrical<br />
Plumbing<br />
General Conditions<br />
Safety<br />
Windows<br />
Rodents and Roaches<br />
Basement<br />
Tenant’s and Landlord’s Rights and Responsibilities ......................................... 8-12<br />
What You Should Know Before You Rent<br />
What You Should Know While Renting<br />
What You Should Know About Terminating A Tenancy<br />
Risk Of Eviction<br />
Month-To-Month Tenants<br />
Termination Notices For Tenants On Leases<br />
Removal From Premises<br />
What You Should do if you Suspect Your Rental Property is in Foreclosure<br />
Unhealthy and Unsafe Conditions<br />
If A Problem Develops<br />
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors ................................................................ 13<br />
Rent Abatement Program ................................................................................... 14-17<br />
Residential Rental Dwelling Unit Registration .................................................. 18-19<br />
(1 st Edition, March, 2013)
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 3<br />
CONTACT INFORMATION<br />
EMERGENCY POLICE & FIRE<br />
911<br />
NON-EMERGENCY POLICE<br />
261-7800<br />
UNITED WAY<br />
211<br />
REFUSE HAULER<br />
ADVANCED DISPOSAL (ADS)<br />
359-6637<br />
YARD WASTE DISPOSAL SITE<br />
261-6760<br />
DEPARTMENT OF <strong>INSPECTION</strong>S & ZONING<br />
261-6780<br />
407 Grant Street (2 nd Floor)<br />
Monday – Friday (8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)<br />
www.ci.wausau.wi.us/departments/inspections.aspx (email link is on the<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Inspection & Zoning page)
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 4<br />
CITY OF WAUSAU GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
Trash Containers<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Can be set out after 5:00 p.m. on the day before pickup & must be removed by<br />
8:00 a.m. the day after pickup<br />
During winter months, trash containers should not be placed on snow banks<br />
Landlords should supply an adequate number <strong>of</strong> containers<br />
Between pickups, trash containers need to be stored in an area that is not<br />
visible from the front or sides <strong>of</strong> the property<br />
Exterior Yards<br />
<br />
<br />
All exterior yards should be maintained in a clean & sanitary condition<br />
All dog/animal excreta should be removed on a daily basis<br />
Vehicles<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Vehicles need to be parked on a driveway or established parking area<br />
Parking on the grass is not allowed<br />
Vehicles that are inoperable, abandoned, unregistered, or dismantled are not<br />
allowed on residential properties<br />
Recreational Equipment<br />
<br />
<br />
Recreation equipment (trailers, motor homes, camping or travel trailers, boats,<br />
boat trailers, snowmobiles, ATV’s, etc.) cannot be parked on the front or corner<br />
side yards; they must be parked on a designated driveway<br />
Equipment that is longer than 30’ (measured from back bumper to tongue) must<br />
be parked within enclosed structures<br />
Signs<br />
<br />
Any signage cannot be placed on boulevards, public right-<strong>of</strong>-ways, or attached<br />
to public utility poles<br />
Porches<br />
<br />
Furniture and other items, not intended for outdoor use, should not be stored on<br />
porches
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 5<br />
Items Requested When Making a Complaint<br />
When making a complaint, please include as much <strong>of</strong> the following specific information as<br />
possible when making your service request:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Exact address and number <strong>of</strong> the unit (if applicable) in question<br />
Current, accurate owner or owner’s agent contact information<br />
A complete listing <strong>of</strong> your concerns<br />
Photo prints or digital photos<br />
When responding to service requests, Inspectors will look specifically at the concerns expressed<br />
by the person requesting inspection services. However, Inspectors are always looking for<br />
life/safety code violations and they will respond to all life/safety code violations regardless <strong>of</strong><br />
whether such violations are referenced by the person requesting inspection services.<br />
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities<br />
State and Municipal laws guarantee that tenants have the right to receive a dwelling unit that<br />
meets the minimum standards set forth in safety, building, mechanical, sanitary and maintenance<br />
codes and to register a complaint with the Department <strong>of</strong> Inspection and Zoning regarding any<br />
condition that does not meet the minimum standards referenced above.<br />
Tenants have the right to be free from discrimination by or retaliation from property owners for<br />
registering a complaint the Department <strong>of</strong> Inspection and Zoning regarding any condition<br />
affecting the dwelling unit.
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 6<br />
CONSUMER FACTS – DON’T RENT TROUBLE<br />
Advice On Checking Out Apartments<br />
(Reprinted From Wisconsin Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Informational Brochure)<br />
Finding a decent place to rent requires thorough inspections <strong>of</strong> apartments and the<br />
strength to keep looking when apartments don’t pan out. We recommend you take along<br />
a:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Flashlight<br />
Light Bulb<br />
Hair Dryer<br />
Pen or Pencil<br />
This Checklist<br />
These will be your inspection tools. Use the following list to check for problems.<br />
Electrical<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Turn on each switch to see if it works.<br />
If there is no bulb in the socket, use yours.<br />
Check every outlet by plugging in your hair dryer. Obviously, there are problems<br />
if a fuse blows out or the dryer won’t go on.<br />
If outlets or sockets don’t work, there could be dangerous defects in the<br />
electrical system that could cause a fire.<br />
Plumbing<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Turn on the sink and bathtub faucets to see if they work or leak.<br />
Flush the toilet to see if it operates properly or leaks.<br />
Do the drains operate properly?<br />
Look up<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Are ceilings water stained or cracked?<br />
Are walls water stained or cracked?<br />
These may indicate a leaking ro<strong>of</strong>, defective rain gutters, or defective plumbing<br />
upstairs. Water damage could cause the ceiling or walls to collapse.<br />
Are there deadbolt locks on the apartment doors and the exterior doors?
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 7<br />
Safety<br />
<br />
<br />
Are there smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the building?<br />
Are there deadbolt locks on the apartment doors and the exterior doors?<br />
Windows<br />
<br />
<br />
Are there storms and screens?<br />
Very gentle push on the windows to see if they are secure or loose in the frame.<br />
Rodents and roaches<br />
<br />
<br />
Open cabinets and immediately shine in flashlight to detect roaches. Look for<br />
roach eggs.<br />
Look for rat and mouse holes and droppings in the back <strong>of</strong> cabinets and closets.<br />
Basement<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Be sure to go into the basement to check on the condition <strong>of</strong> the furnace. (Make<br />
sure there is a furnace.)<br />
Look at the water heater to see if it is leaking.<br />
If you notice any serious problems, think carefully about the chance you’ll be<br />
taking with your family’s health and safety if you rent the apartment.<br />
Ask the landlord to put promised repairs in writing. But ask yourself: “If he/she<br />
didn’t make these repairs for the last tenant, why should I believe he’ll/she’ll<br />
make the repairs for me?”<br />
If your landlord doesn’t make promised repairs, call your local building inspection department to<br />
request an inspection.<br />
For more information, or to file a complaint, contact the Bureau <strong>of</strong> Consumer Protection at:<br />
PHONE: (800) 422‐7128<br />
FAX: (608) 224‐4939<br />
EMAIL: datcphotline@datcp.state.wi.us<br />
WEBSITE: http://datcp.state.wi.us
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 8<br />
CONSUMER PROTECTION<br />
TENANT’S RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES<br />
(Reprinted From Wisconsin Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Informational Brochure)<br />
As a tenant in Wisconsin, you have rights and responsibilities. To avoid problems, it is important that<br />
you know what these rights and responsibilities are:<br />
What You Should Know Before You Rent<br />
Landlords may not advertise or rent condemned property.<br />
Landlords must disclose housing code violations they have been notified <strong>of</strong> but have not corrected.<br />
They must also reveal structural defects, a lack <strong>of</strong> hot or cold running water, serious plumbing, or<br />
electrical problems, and other hazards.<br />
Landlords must also disclose:<br />
If the heating unit cannot maintain a temperature <strong>of</strong> at least 67 degrees Fahrenheit.<br />
If you are required to pay utilities.<br />
How utility charges will be divided if the dwelling is one <strong>of</strong> several not individually metered.<br />
You have the right to inspect the unit before you rent it. We recommend you take along a flashlight,<br />
light bulb, hairdryer, pen, and the following checklist:<br />
Turn on each light switch to see if it works.<br />
Check outlets (use hairdryer) and sockets (use light bulb) – defects could cause fires.<br />
Turn on sink and bathtub faucets – check for leaks, proper drainage and water temperature.<br />
Flush toilets – check for leaks.<br />
Look for smoke detectors.<br />
Check ceilings and walls for cracks and water stains.<br />
Are there deadbolts on apartment and exterior doors?<br />
Push on the windows – are they secure? Are latches in good working order?<br />
Check for window storms and screens.<br />
Check condition <strong>of</strong> furnace. Even in summer, turn up thermostat to make sure it actually<br />
works.<br />
Look at water heater to see if it is leaking.<br />
Promises <strong>of</strong> repairs by a landlord should be provided to you in writing, including a completion date,<br />
before you agree to rent the property.<br />
Rental agreements are not required to be in writing. However, if there is a written rental agreement,<br />
the landlord must give you an opportunity to read it before you decide to rent. When renting, you<br />
must be furnished with a copy <strong>of</strong> the agreement.<br />
If an earnest money deposit is required with your rental application, the landlord must return the<br />
entire deposit by the end <strong>of</strong> the next business day if your application is rejected. If for some reason<br />
you decide not to rent, the landlord may withhold from your deposit actuals costs or damages.
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 9<br />
If a security deposit is required, you have 7 days from the first rental date to inspect the premises and<br />
notify the landlord <strong>of</strong> any defects so that they will not be unfairly charged to you. You should notify<br />
the landlord in writing and keep a copy for your own records. In addition, before accepting your<br />
security deposit, the landlord must notify you that you have the right to request a list <strong>of</strong> damages<br />
charged to the previous tenant.<br />
The landlord may charge you the actual cost, up to $20, to obtain a credit report from one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
three nationwide credit reporting agencies (not credit information resellers), provided the landlord<br />
has notified you in advance <strong>of</strong> the charge and also gives you a copy <strong>of</strong> the report. If you have a credit<br />
report that is less than 30 days old, you may give this report to the landlord to avoid paying for a new<br />
report.<br />
What You Should Know While Renting<br />
At the start <strong>of</strong> the tenancy, the landlord must provide you with the name and address <strong>of</strong> a person<br />
who can be readily contacted regarding maintenance problems.<br />
The landlord is responsible for making any repairs that are necessary to comply with local housing<br />
codes and keep the premises safe. If the landlord refuses to repair major building defects, you may<br />
report the defect to your local building or health inspector. The landlord may not retaliate by evicting<br />
you.<br />
Unless otherwise agreed, tenants are usually responsible for routine minor repairs. You are also<br />
required to comply with any maintenance and sanitation requirements imposed on tenants by local<br />
housing codes. You are financially responsible for any damages that you or your guests have caused.<br />
A landlord has the right to inspect, repair, and show the premises at reasonable times. Except for<br />
emergency situations, the landlord may enter only after a 12‐hour advance notice unless you allow<br />
entry on shorter notice.<br />
If you are a tenant renting by the month, the landlord may raise your rent by giving you written<br />
notice at least 28 days before the next rent due date. There are no state laws limiting the amount <strong>of</strong><br />
rent increase.<br />
If you have a lease – for example, a six‐month or one‐year lease – the rent may not be increased<br />
during that time unless specifically stated in the lease.<br />
What You Should Know About Terminating a Tenancy<br />
If you are renting by the month, the landlord may terminate the rental agreement by giving you a<br />
written termination notice at least 28 days before the next due date. You must use the same<br />
procedure in notifying the landlord <strong>of</strong> your intent to terminate the rental agreement unless you<br />
agreed to give a longer notice. Tenants may serve the written notice in person or by certified or<br />
registered mail.
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 10<br />
A six‐month or one‐year lease usually terminates automatically at the end <strong>of</strong> the lease, unless the<br />
rental agreement specifies otherwise. If the lease provides that it will be automatically renewed or<br />
extended unless you give advance notice <strong>of</strong> termination, the landlord must “remind” you <strong>of</strong> the<br />
provision at least 15‐20 days in advance <strong>of</strong> the notice deadline. Otherwise, the landlord may not<br />
attempt to enforce the automatic renewal.<br />
If you “break” a lease by moving out early, you may be obligated to pay for the remainder <strong>of</strong> the term<br />
unless another suitable tenant is found. However, the landlord must make reasonable efforts to find<br />
a suitable tenant and minimize any rent losses. Also if you move early, you must notify the landlord<br />
in writing <strong>of</strong> your departure after you have vacated the dwelling unit in order to “start the 21 day<br />
clock” for the return or accounting <strong>of</strong> your security deposit.<br />
When moving out, it is always a good idea to contact your landlord to arrange for a final checkout<br />
inspection. If your landlord does not agree, find someone to be a witness to inspect the premises<br />
with you.<br />
If you paid a security deposit, the landlord must return it to you within 21 days after you move out.<br />
The landlord may deduct for unpaid rent or damages for which you are responsible.<br />
On the other hand, a routine across‐the‐board deduction from the security deposit for cleaning or<br />
carpet shampooing, in the absence <strong>of</strong> abuse, waste, or neglect on your part, is prohibited.<br />
Deductions can also be made for your utility bills paid by the landlord.<br />
If there are any deductions from the security deposit, the landlord must furnish you with a written<br />
statement itemizing the amounts withheld.<br />
State law does not require payment <strong>of</strong> interest on security deposits.<br />
Risk <strong>of</strong> Eviction<br />
Tenants who pay partial rent, no rent, or late rent (even one day late) put themselves at risk <strong>of</strong><br />
eviction, as do tenants who break the rules or terms <strong>of</strong> the rental agreement or cause damage.<br />
Month‐to‐month tenants may be given either a written “5‐day Quit or Pay Rent Notice” or a 14‐day<br />
written notice to vacate the property<br />
<br />
<br />
5‐day Notice. This written notice from the landlord gives the tenant five days to pay rent or<br />
move out within five days. If the tenant pays, the tenancy continues. This notice can also be<br />
used for violations <strong>of</strong> the rental agreement, or material damage to the property.<br />
14‐day Notice. This written notice specifies that the tenancy has ended because the tenant<br />
failed to pay the rent, broke the agreement, or damaged the property. This notice does not<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer the option <strong>of</strong> paying the rent and staying in the building. If the landlord wants you to<br />
leave the property for violations <strong>of</strong> the rental agreement, a 14‐day notice to vacate the<br />
property is usually given.
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 11<br />
Termination notices for tenants on leases<br />
When landlords don’t receive the rent on time or believe the tenant has broken the rental agreement<br />
or caused damage, they may serve a 5‐day written notice.<br />
<br />
<br />
If the tenant pays the rent within 5 days, the tenancy continues. If the tenant fails to pay the<br />
rent again within the following 12 months, the landlord may then give a 14‐day termination<br />
notice for failure to pay rent without any other opportunity for the tenant to continue<br />
tenancy.<br />
If tenants receive a 5‐day notice for breaking the agreement, they may remain if they make a<br />
correction and comply. If tenants break any rule or cause damage within the following 12<br />
months, the landlord may give a final 14‐day termination notice specifying the breach or<br />
damage.<br />
If you refuse to leave the premises after your tenancy has been terminated, the landlord may start an<br />
eviction action against you in Small Claims Court. You will be served a summons. This is your notice<br />
to appear in court, it does not mean you are evicted. In court, the judge asks you and the landlord to<br />
explain your sides and then will make a decision about your eviction. If you receive a summons for<br />
eviction, seek the help <strong>of</strong> a legal aid service (look up LEGAL AID in the yellow pages <strong>of</strong> your phone<br />
book) or consult with a private attorney (call the State Bar <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin Lawyer Referral Service<br />
(800)362‐9082 or (608)257‐4666).<br />
Removal from premises<br />
The landlord may not confiscate your personal belongings, turn <strong>of</strong>f your utilities, lock you out <strong>of</strong> your<br />
apartment, or use force to remove you.<br />
If the small claims court judge rules in the landlord’s favor, the judge may issue a court order<br />
requiring you to leave the property. If you don’t, the county sheriff may remove you and your<br />
belongings from the premises. These steps may only be taken after the small claims court hearing<br />
and after the judge orders the eviction. If the court determines that you have wrongfully overstayed,<br />
the landlord could be awarded twice the amount <strong>of</strong> rent, prorated on a daily basis, for each day you<br />
unlawfully occupy the premises.<br />
What you should do if you suspect your rental property is in foreclosure<br />
If you suspect that your rental property is in foreclosure or is going into foreclosure, continue to make<br />
your rental payments as required by your rental agreement unless you are otherwise directed by the<br />
court or by the agent handling the foreclosure.<br />
You can determine whether your rental property is in foreclosure by contacting the Clerk <strong>of</strong> Court for<br />
your county or checking the Wisconsin Circuit Court access site at http://wcca.wicourts.gov/index.xsl
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 12<br />
Unhealthy & Unsafe Conditions<br />
Sometimes rental units become unhealthy, unsafe, or unlivable due to a landlord’s failure to maintain<br />
the property. It would be wise to get legal advice to learn if the tenant is able to legally abate (adjust)<br />
the rent. A lawyer may indicate how to document the condition, what agencies to contact, and what<br />
should be put in writing. If not done legally, rent abatement could result in eviction.<br />
If conditions are so bad that tenants feel they can no longer safely live in a rental unit, a lawyer<br />
should be contacted before the tenants <strong>of</strong>ficially move out to prevent further financial obligation.<br />
If a Problem Develops<br />
If a problem develops between you and your landlord, information and assistance may be available<br />
from various local groups and agencies, including housing code <strong>of</strong>ficials, landlord and tenant<br />
associations, and Wisconsin Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.<br />
Landlord‐tenant relations in Wisconsin are regulated by Chapter 704, Wisconsin Statutes, and by<br />
Chapter ATCP 134, Wis. Adm. Code. In addition, Chapter ATCP 125, Wis. Adm. Code, further<br />
regulates mobile home park operator‐tenant relations.<br />
If a landlord violates Chapter ATCP 134, for example, by refusing to return or account for your<br />
security deposit, you may be able to start an action in Small Claims Court. Section 100.20(5),<br />
Wisconsin Statutes, enables you to recover twice the amount <strong>of</strong> any actual monetary loss, together<br />
with court costs and reasonable attorney fees. Copies <strong>of</strong> Chapter ATCP 134 may be obtained from<br />
the Department’s Division <strong>of</strong> Trade and Consumer Protection.<br />
For more information, or to file a complaint, contact the Bureau <strong>of</strong> Consumer Protection at:<br />
(800)422‐7128 Milwaukee (414)266‐1231 Madison (608)224‐4960<br />
Green Bay (920)448‐5110 FAX: (608)224‐4939 TTY: (608)224‐5058<br />
EMAIL: datcphotline@datcp.state.wi.us<br />
WEBSITE: http://datcp.state.wi.us
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 13<br />
SMOKE & CARBON<br />
MONOXIDE DETECTORS<br />
Landlords must supply and maintain all required smoke detectors. The State <strong>of</strong><br />
Wisconsin SPS Chapters regarding smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors is<br />
listed below:<br />
SPS 328.03 Smoke detectors. Smoke detectors shall be installed and maintained in<br />
accordance with s. 101.645(3) Stats., in a dwelling, for which initial construction<br />
commenced before June 1, 1980.<br />
SPS 328.04 Carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide detectors shall be<br />
installed and maintained in accordance with s. 101.647(2),(3)(a) and (b) and (6), Stats.,<br />
in a dwelling for which initial construction commenced before June 1, 1980.<br />
What you need to know:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors must be located in the basement and on<br />
each floor <strong>of</strong> the property.<br />
New construction must be hard-wired with a battery back up.<br />
Existing homes may install any type <strong>of</strong> CO alarms<br />
A carbon monoxide detector required under this section shall bear an<br />
Underwirters Laboratories, Inc. listing mark.<br />
Alarms should be installed in accordance with directions from the manufacturer<br />
Exceptions:<br />
<br />
<br />
CO alarms are only required in new and existing homes that have a fuel burning<br />
appliance, which includes: stoves, ovens, grills, clothes dryer, furnaces, boilers,<br />
water heaters, fireplaces and heaters OR an attached garage.<br />
Alarms do not need to be installed in the attic, garage or storage area <strong>of</strong> homes.<br />
Maintenance:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Test alarms monthly.<br />
Replace alarms accordingly to manufacturer instructions.<br />
Check batteries and replace twice a year.<br />
Alarms should never be disconnected or unplugged.<br />
Batteries should never be removed for other uses.
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 14<br />
RENT ABATEMENT PROGRAM<br />
Rent abatement is a process by which tenants living in rental units with certain unrepaired<br />
conditions may qualify for rent reduction if property owners do not comply with inspection<br />
orders.<br />
Residents may report conditions to the Inspections and Zoning Department by calling<br />
715.261.6780. Inspections will provide notice to tenants if abatable conditions persist after<br />
the owner has received notice <strong>of</strong> code violations and failed to correct issues prior to reinspection.<br />
Once notified <strong>of</strong> abatement eligibility, tenants have 30 days to request a<br />
hearing before the Public Health and Safety Committee by complete a request form<br />
available at the customer service desk at city hall or via the <strong>City</strong>’s website. A fee <strong>of</strong> $25<br />
must be submitted with the form to the city clerk. Once these are received, a hearing is<br />
scheduled. Testimony and evidence are presented by both sides for committee<br />
consideration. If abatement is awarded, the tenant may deduct the approved percentage<br />
<strong>of</strong> the rent retroactive to the date <strong>of</strong> the original violation notice.<br />
A list <strong>of</strong> abatable conditions is included below. Conditions include, but are not limited to<br />
issues with heating systems, electrical, plumbing, security, moisture, pests, safety, and<br />
structural issues. A list <strong>of</strong> addresses with unresolved abatable violations is posted at<br />
www.ci.wausau.wi.us. Residents and prospective tenants may view the list to determine if<br />
a unit they are living in or considering renting has serious issues.<br />
RENT IMPAIRING VIOLATIONS<br />
<strong>Wausau</strong> Municipal Code Section 16.04.037<br />
Violation Description % <strong>of</strong><br />
Abatement<br />
H‐401.3<br />
H‐401.4<br />
Non‐functioning kitchen sink and lavatory basin 10‐25%<br />
H‐401.3<br />
H‐401.4<br />
H‐401.3<br />
H‐401.4<br />
H‐400.3<br />
Non‐functioning flush water closet Not only facility 5‐10%<br />
Only facility 50‐75%<br />
Non‐functioning bathtub or shower Not only facility 5‐10%<br />
Only facility 25‐50%<br />
Water pressure/volume<br />
1. None<br />
2. Inadequate<br />
H‐400.3.1 Hot water tank not provided or not functional 5‐50%<br />
>48 hours 50‐95%<br />
10‐25%<br />
H‐400.5<br />
H‐400.6<br />
WMC 6.44.040(A)<br />
Garbage and refuse storage facility ‐<br />
inadequate or not provided<br />
5%
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 15<br />
H‐302.7<br />
H‐302.8<br />
H‐302.9.2<br />
H‐401.6<br />
H‐401.6.1<br />
H‐401.6<br />
H‐401.6.1<br />
H‐403.5<br />
H‐403.4<br />
H‐400.4<br />
H‐302.0 (ext)<br />
H‐401.2.1<br />
H‐302.7 (ext)<br />
Required exits<br />
1. Not provided or totally unusable<br />
2. Partially usable<br />
Screens<br />
1. No screens provided or all screens in need <strong>of</strong><br />
repair<br />
2. Not all screens provided or some screens in<br />
need <strong>of</strong> repair<br />
Electrical services and<br />
1. No electricity<br />
2. Underfused circuits<br />
3. Overfused circuits<br />
4. Exposed wires, damaged or bare wires<br />
presenting shock hazards<br />
Lighting<br />
1. Required light switches not provided or<br />
functioning<br />
2. Public halls and/or stairs not lit<br />
3. Outside entrance doors not lit<br />
Heat<br />
1. Not heated or consistently below 55 degrees<br />
2. Inadequate or occasionally inadequate (55‐<br />
69 degrees)<br />
Floors, walls, ceilings, ro<strong>of</strong><br />
1. Unsafe to the degree the room is unusable<br />
2. Incapable <strong>of</strong> affording privacy<br />
3. Appropriate floor surfacing not provided, or<br />
damaged so that it does not function to provide<br />
ease <strong>of</strong> maintenance<br />
4. Unsealed gaps allowing collection <strong>of</strong> dirt and<br />
other matter which creates a cleaning or<br />
sanitation problem<br />
Chimney<br />
1. Not properly removing combustible products<br />
2. In danger <strong>of</strong> collapse<br />
Exterior and interior doors, basement hatchway doors<br />
1. Missing and affecting privacy, health, safety,<br />
and security<br />
2. Hazardous ‐ unhinged, requiring excessive force<br />
to open, door or hardware interfering with<br />
egress/ingress<br />
10‐25% per exit<br />
5‐10% per exit<br />
10‐25%<br />
5‐10%<br />
>48 hours 50‐95%<br />
10‐25%<br />
5‐10%<br />
25‐75%<br />
5% per switch<br />
5‐25%<br />
5‐25%<br />
24‐48 hrs 25%<br />
>48 hrs 50‐95%<br />
10‐25%<br />
Not a kit., only bath 25‐<br />
50%<br />
Kit. or only bath 50‐95%<br />
5‐10% per room<br />
5%<br />
50‐75%<br />
10‐25%<br />
10‐50%<br />
10‐50%
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 16<br />
H‐302.7<br />
Windows (one or more)<br />
1. Missing from first floor, basement or other<br />
window openings accessible by balconies, fire<br />
escapes, trees, etc and negating dwelling unit<br />
or lodging room security<br />
2. Hazardous ‐ windows which must be propped<br />
open, broken windows with glass shards in the<br />
frame<br />
25‐50%<br />
10‐50%<br />
H‐302.7.4 Door locks ‐ no lock or not functional 25‐75%<br />
H‐302.7<br />
Window sash locks ‐ not functional or not provided<br />
1. First floor, basement, and all other windows<br />
accessible by balconies, fire escapes, trees, or<br />
other existing means<br />
2. All other windows where required<br />
10‐25%<br />
H‐302.6 Inside and outside stairs and/or porch – hazardous Egress only 50‐95%<br />
Not only egress 25‐50%<br />
H‐302.6<br />
H‐401.3<br />
H‐401.4<br />
H‐401.3<br />
H‐401.4<br />
Required appurtenances to any porch or stair such as<br />
handrails and guardrails<br />
1. Missing or inadequate when protecting an<br />
elevation less than four feet (4')<br />
2. Missing or inadequate when protecting an<br />
elevation greater than four feet (4')<br />
Leaking water supply or drain piping not containing<br />
sewage to extent it interferes with tenants full use <strong>of</strong><br />
all or part <strong>of</strong> premises<br />
1. In kitchn, bathroom, bedroom or other living<br />
areas<br />
2. Other areas<br />
Leaking or obstructing drain piping containing sewage<br />
that causes backup <strong>of</strong> sewage into fixtures, onto<br />
floors, or through ceilings or walls (including<br />
basement)<br />
5%<br />
5‐10%<br />
10‐50%<br />
10‐25%<br />
5‐10%<br />
50‐90%<br />
H‐401.2<br />
Failure to clean and disinfect common area after<br />
sewage backup<br />
Owner not maintaining common areas in sanitary<br />
conditions<br />
10‐25%<br />
5‐25%<br />
H‐401.2.1<br />
Failure to clean and disinfect basement after sewage<br />
backup<br />
10‐25%
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 17<br />
H‐307.7<br />
Severe infestation <strong>of</strong> pests, whether occasional or<br />
chronic<br />
10‐50%<br />
SPS 321.09<br />
SPS 321.097<br />
SPS 362.0907<br />
SPS 362.1200<br />
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors not<br />
installed where required<br />
5‐25% per missing<br />
detector<br />
H‐303.2<br />
Basement Water and Moisture Problems<br />
1. Basement water violation in non‐habitable area;<br />
water, mold and/or mildew accumulation<br />
2. Basement water violation in habitable area:<br />
damp, continually wet, standing water, mold and<br />
mildew accumulation<br />
5‐25%<br />
5‐75%
CITY OF WAUSAU PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & TENANT INFORMATION 18<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong><br />
Residential Rental Dwelling Unit Registration<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong> adopted an ordinance requiring the owners <strong>of</strong> residential rental properties<br />
to register with the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong>, who the contact person should be for rental units they<br />
own.<br />
The ordinance follows:<br />
16.04.030 Appointment and Registration <strong>of</strong> Agents for Residents and Nonresidents<br />
Who Own Rental Dwelling Units in the <strong>City</strong>. Any person who owns any rental<br />
dwelling unit in the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong> shall maintain with the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong><br />
Inspections Department a current listing <strong>of</strong> his address and telephone number and<br />
if the owner lives outside Marathon County, Wisconsin, the name, telephone<br />
number, and address <strong>of</strong> an adult person who is empowered to receive service <strong>of</strong><br />
process as agent for the owner. The owner shall sign a written statement<br />
appointing the agent and the agent shall sign the statement accepting the<br />
appointment. The statement shall be filed with the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong> Inspections<br />
Department. No person may qualify as an agent for an owner unless that person:<br />
(a) Resides in Marathon County Wisconsin; or<br />
(b) Owns a business which that person operates on a full‐time basis in the<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong>.<br />
Any changes <strong>of</strong> names, telephone numbers or addresses in such listing shall be<br />
reported within 10 days <strong>of</strong> such change. Any owner who fails to notify the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Wausau</strong> Inspections Department <strong>of</strong> a change in name, address, or telephone<br />
number within such 10‐day period shall be subject to forfeiture as provided in<br />
16.04.025. The addresses for the owner and the agent shall be a street address at<br />
which the owner and agent actually reside or at which they are engaged in full‐time<br />
employment. A post <strong>of</strong>fice box address may not be used, except in conjunction<br />
with the actual street address. In this paragraph, a corporation, partnership,<br />
limited liability company or other organization shall be deemed a nonresident<br />
owner if it does not operate a business <strong>of</strong>fice on a full‐time basis in the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Wausau</strong>.<br />
If you have any questions, regarding this information, please contact the<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Inspections and Zoning at (715) 261‐6780.
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong><br />
Rental Dwelling Unit Registration<br />
This form must be filled out for each rental address:<br />
Dwelling Unit(s) Address<br />
Number <strong>of</strong> dwelling units at this address<br />
Property Owner Name<br />
Contact<br />
Address <strong>of</strong> Owner*: Street<br />
<strong>City</strong>, State, Zip Code<br />
Phone Number(s)<br />
If the owner is not a resident <strong>of</strong> Marathon County the following must also be filled out and<br />
signed by both the owner and his/her registered agent:<br />
I, ,own the residential rental property located at<br />
located in the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong>, and have<br />
appointed<br />
who resides at/owns a business at:<br />
Address<br />
Municipality/Zip<br />
, within the County <strong>of</strong><br />
Marathon, State <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin, as my local agent to receive service <strong>of</strong> process when necessary.<br />
By signing this statement he/she is accepting the appointment.<br />
Owner’s Signature<br />
Date<br />
Owner’s Phone Number(s)<br />
Agent's Signature<br />
Date<br />
Agent's Phone Number(s)<br />
Please return this form to: <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wausau</strong> Inspections Department<br />
Rental Registration<br />
407 Grant Street<br />
<strong>Wausau</strong>, WI 54403<br />
*A post <strong>of</strong>fice box address may not be used, except in conjunction with the actual street address<br />
If you have any questions regarding this form, please contact the<br />
Inspections Department at (715) 261-6780.