How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Wyoming?
Wyoming uses a 30-day / 15-day-whichever-is-later rule. The landlord must deliver or mail the deposit balance, any prepaid rent balance, and a written itemization of deductions within 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or within 15 days after receiving your new mailing address, whichever is later.
Do I have to give a new mailing address?
Yes, protect yourself by doing this in writing. Wyoming says the renter shall notify the owner or designated agent within 30 days after termination of the location where payment and notice may be made or mailed.
What if there is damage?
If there is damage to the residential rental unit, the timing period can be extended by 30 days. The landlord should still explain the deductions and reasons. Keep photos, videos, move-in records, receipts, invoices, and messages.
What can a Wyoming landlord deduct?
Wyoming allows deductions for accrued rent, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, cleaning needed to return the unit to the condition at the beginning of the rental agreement, and other costs provided by contract.
Can a landlord deduct for ordinary wear and tear?
No. Wyoming's damage language excludes reasonable wear and tear. Normal aging and ordinary use should not be treated the same as tenant-caused damage.
What if part of my deposit was called nonrefundable?
Check the rental agreement and the written notice you received when the deposit was taken. Wyoming requires the rental agreement to state whether any part of a deposit is nonrefundable, and written notice must also be provided when the deposit is taken.
Are utilities deposits handled the same way?
No. A deposit separately identified as a utilities deposit has its own timing rule. Keep final utility bills and payment proof separate from the ordinary deposit dispute.
What happens if the landlord unreasonably fails to comply?
Wyoming says that if the owner or agent unreasonably fails to comply with the deposit or utility-deposit section, the renter may recover the full deposit and court costs. That is not a double- or treble-damages rule.
What proof should I keep?
Keep the lease, deposit proof, prepaid rent proof, new-address notice, move-out date, key return, possession delivery, photos, videos, itemization, reasons, receipts, invoices, utility-payment proof, envelopes, postmarks, and messages.
The Wyoming Recovery System turns these rules into four editable letters in the right order.
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Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.