The Sconi

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) have launched a new FAQ page for tenants affected by Berrada Properties Management's practices. This initiative follows a resolution in a case involving alleged illegal business practices.

Attorney General Kaul emphasized the importance of this resolution: “The resolution in this case establishes programs that will provide support to many Berrada Properties tenants. I encourage those who may be eligible to learn more."

DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski praised the efforts involved: “I am proud of the DATCP Consumer Protection team's work to investigate and refer this case, and thankful for the efforts of the Department of Justice that have brought about a solution for affected tenants. Illegal business practices that harm consumers are not tolerated in Wisconsin. Any tenant or landlord with questions about their rights and responsibilities should explore our free online resources or contact our Consumer Protection Hotline."

As part of the agreement, Berrada Properties Management will implement several remediation programs overseen by Community Advocates of Milwaukee through the Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center. These include an income-based rental program for up to 300 tenants over three to five years, participation in an eviction diversion program, establishment of a $1,300,000 credit account for rent assistance grants, and offering up to $400,000 in move-out assistance payments.

The agreement also includes vacating eviction judgments related to late rent fees or attorney fees deemed illegally charged by the State. Additionally, it requires restitution payments to affected tenants.

Despite these measures, Defendants do not admit liability or wrongdoing as part of this agreement. The settlement involves a monetary payment exceeding $1,700,000 from Berrada Properties Management.

For further details on timelines and remediation programs related to this settlement, individuals can visit DATCP's website or contact their Consumer Protection Hotline.

The DOJ team involved included Assistant Attorneys General Robert B. Bresette, Cameron D. Oliveira, Gregory A. Myszkowski; Paralegal-Advanced Wendy Phifer; Assistant Attorneys General Colin T. Roth and Anthony D. Russomanno; former Assistant Attorneys General R. Duane Harlow and Ezekiel J. Roth-Reynolds; while DATCP staff included Valerie Schmidt as Consumer Protection Investigator among others.