MODERATE RISK

Wyoming

Security deposit laws

Wyoming security deposit laws are detailed under the Wyoming Statutes Title 1, Chapter 21, Article 12. These laws provide clear guidelines on how landlords must handle security deposits, ensuring both landlords and tenants are aware of their rights and responsibilities under Wyoming law. Please note that rules and regulations may vary by municipality.

Collecting & Holding

Security Deposit Amount

Wyoming does not restrict the amount a residential landlord can require as a security deposit.

Options for Holding

Wyoming law does not specify that security deposits must be held in a separate or interest-bearing account.

Notification Requirements

Wyoming law does not require landlords to provide tenants with written notification regarding the location or interest status of the security deposit.

Payment of Interest Earned

Landlords in Wyoming are not required to pay interest on security deposits. There is no statutory requirement for interest payments on security deposits.

Returning

Timeline for Returning

The balance of any deposit and prepaid rent and a written itemization of any deductions from the deposit together with reasons therefor, shall be delivered or mailed without interest to the renter within thirty (30) days after termination of the rental agreement or within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the renter’s new mailing address, whichever is later.

If there is damage to the residential rental unit, this period shall be extended by thirty (30) days.

Claims Process

Landlords can deduct from the security deposit for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs. They must provide an itemized statement of deductions to the tenant within 60 days.

If the tenant disputes the deductions, they may file an action in small claims court.

Permissible Deductions

Landlords in Wyoming can deduct from the security deposit for:

  • Unpaid rent.
  • Damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Cleaning costs necessary to restore the unit to its original condition.
  • Unpaid utility bills if the tenant was responsible for them.

Normal wear and tear, such as minor carpet wear or paint fading, is not a permissible deduction.

Penalties

If a landlord fails to return the security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within the 30-day period, the tenant may be entitled to recover the full deposit amount. In cases of bad faith or unreasonable delay, the landlord may face additional statutory penalties and could be liable for attorney's fees.

Special Circumstances

Utility Deposits: After termination of the rental agreement, property or money held and separately identified as a utilities deposit shall be refunded by the owner to the renter within ten (10) days of a satisfactory showing that all utility charges incurred by the renter have been paid. Absent such showing within forty-five (45) days of termination, the owner shall within fifteen (15) days thereafter, apply the utilities deposit to the outstanding utility debt incurred by the renter. Any refund due to the renter shall be paid within seven (7) days after the utility deposit has been applied to the renter’s utility debt, or within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the renter’s new mailing address, whichever is later.

DISCLAIMER: Security deposit laws may vary by county or municipality. The information provided by Build Whale, Inc. is for
general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is not a substitute for consultation with a
qualified attorney. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Build Whale, Inc. makes no guarantees or
warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.