Accessibility Modification Costs in Wyoming Rentals: A Renter’s Guide

Renters in Wyoming who have disabilities may require changes to their rental homes to ensure accessibility. Understanding who pays for these modifications, your rights, and how the law protects you is essential to keeping your independence and comfort.

Your Right to Accessibility as a Wyoming Renter

Both federal and Wyoming state laws protect renters with disabilities. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act require landlords to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. This may include allowing tenants to make accessibility modifications (sometimes called reasonable modifications).

Who Is Responsible for Costs?

• Generally, renters are responsible for paying for accessibility modifications they request, unless the property receives federal assistance.
• Landlords must allow these changes if they are reasonable and necessary for the tenant’s disability.
• Landlords can require the tenant to return the unit to its original condition when moving out, but only if it’s reasonable to do so.

If the rental property is federally assisted housing, the landlord may be required to pay for some modifications.^[1]

Common Accessibility Modifications

• Widening doorways
• Installing grab bars in bathrooms
• Lowering cabinets and counters
• Adding ramps

These changes can help renters live safely and independently.

How to Request Accessibility Modifications

Want to request a modification? Use these steps to protect your rights:

• Submit your request in writing to your landlord.
• Be clear about what modification is needed and how it relates to your disability.
• Include documentation from a healthcare provider, if possible.

Official Forms and Practical Example

• Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request (HUD Form 90102): While Wyoming does not have a state-specific form, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a generic reasonable modification request form. This can be used by renters needing changes due to a disability.
• When and How to Use: If you need to install a grab bar, complete this form and give it to your landlord to formally request the modification. Clearly state how the change is connected to your disability, and outline who will pay and how the work will be completed.

Can Landlords Set Conditions?

• Landlords may require that modifications be done professionally and that you obtain any required permits.
• They may ask you to restore the property to its original condition if the changes will not benefit future tenants.

For federally assisted housing, tenants should contact their local Wyoming HUD office to discuss financial responsibility and available resources.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Wyoming?

Wyoming does not have a specialized residential tenancy tribunal. Disputes between landlords and tenants are generally handled by the Wyoming state district or circuit courts, which provide information and self-help resources.

FAQ: Wyoming Accessibility Modification Rules

1. Can my landlord deny my request for accessibility modifications?
   Landlords can only deny a request if it is unreasonable or would cause significant damage or financial burden. Most legitimate requests must be allowed by law.
2. Who pays to return the rental to its original condition?
   The renter is usually responsible for restoring the unit (for example, removing a ramp) if requested by the landlord, as long as it is reasonable.
3. Are there forms I must fill out to request an accommodation in Wyoming?
   Wyoming does not require a specific form, but using the HUD Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form is recommended for clarity and record-keeping.
4. What if I can’t afford to pay for needed modifications?
   Tenants in federally assisted housing may be eligible for cost assistance. Others may be able to seek grants or local disability support agencies for help.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord is not cooperating?
   You can contact the Wyoming Civil Rights Division or the nearest HUD office for assistance or to file a complaint.

Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• You have the right to reasonable accessibility modifications in your rental unit.
• In most cases, renters pay for the cost, unless in federally funded housing.
• Always communicate requests in writing and seek help if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Civil Rights Division – Assistance with housing discrimination and disability matters.
• Wyoming Courts Self-Help Resources – Guidance for renters involved in legal disputes.
• HUD Wyoming – Federal information and complaint intake for fair housing.
• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (2023) – Full state rental legislation text.

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1. Fair Housing Act
2. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (2023)
3. HUD Reasonable Modification Guidance

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