(UNDATED) Renters and homeowners across Wisconsin filed more consumer complaints in 2025, with housing-related disputes once again leading the list, according to new data from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
DATCP says it received thousands of written complaints last year, with overall complaints increasing compared to 2024. Landlord-tenant issues remained the most common problem, drawing more than 2,600 complaints and thousands of additional calls to the state’s consumer hotline. Common concerns included maintenance problems, security deposit disputes, evictions, mold, infestations, and unauthorized entry.
Telemarketing complaints ranked second, driven by robocalls, phishing attempts, and imposter scams. Home improvement and telecommunications complaints followed close behind, with consumers reporting billing disputes, unfinished work, misleading claims, and trouble canceling services.
One category cracked the top ten for the first time: major appliances. DATCP says complaints in that area often involved defective products, refund issues, and unfulfilled agreements, including problems tied to a business that closed unexpectedly.
State officials say the numbers show how often everyday problems can turn into costly disputes. DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski said the agency steps in when consumers and businesses can’t reach a resolution on their own.
DATCP reports its enforcement and mediation efforts made a measurable impact in 2025, including criminal penalties for some home improvement contractors, a $450,000 settlement with a telecommunications provider, and one case that saved a consumer $85,000 on a medical procedure.
Consumers can file complaints online through DATCP’s Consumer Protection webpage or contact the agency’s hotline for assistance.
