Add a Roommate to Your Lease in Wyoming: What Renters Need to Know

Sharing your rental with a roommate in Wyoming can help with costs and make living more enjoyable. But before someone moves in, it's important to understand the state’s rules for tenants, your lease, and how to follow the law when adding a new roommate. This guide explains what to do to stay protected as a renter and avoid unintentional lease violations in Wyoming.

Understanding the Lease and Your Landlord's Approval

Most Wyoming leases require your landlord’s written consent before you add a roommate or let anyone live with you long-term. Review your current lease agreement carefully for any clauses about additional occupants, subletting, or changing tenants.

• Check for a "no subletting" clause — This may require landlord approval for roommates.
• Read for "maximum occupancy" rules — Leases often limit the number of residents.
• Adding a roommate without following lease rules can lead to lease termination or eviction.

If you’re unsure about your lease, consider contacting your landlord or reviewing their requirements in writing. Wyoming law doesn’t mandate that landlords allow roommates, but it does require them to follow the lease terms and Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act provisions^[1].

How to Add a Roommate Legally in Wyoming

Here are the key steps:

• Talk to your landlord. Request permission in writing, explaining why you want to add a roommate and providing their information (full name, contact details, and, if required, references).
• Have the potential roommate apply. Most landlords require a new roommate to complete a rental application or background check, just like any new tenant.
• Complete necessary documentation. In Wyoming, this usually means one of these:
• Lease Amendment Form — If your landlord agrees, they may provide a simple lease addendum (sometimes called a room addition or "Roommate Addendum") to add the new roommate’s name.
• New Lease Agreement — The landlord might require all tenants (including you and the new roommate) to sign an entirely new lease. This resets responsibilities for everyone.
• Sign and keep records. Make sure you receive a signed copy from the landlord showing the roommate is officially added before they move in.

Key Official Documents & Forms

• No single statewide form is mandated in Wyoming for adding a roommate. However, your landlord may use their own Lease Amendment/Addendum — always request a copy and keep it for your records.
• Example: If your landlord shares a "Roommate Addendum" to include Jane Doe starting June 1, both you, Jane, and the landlord should sign it. This document clarifies who’s responsible for rent, deposits, and following lease rules.
• If your landlord requires a formal rental application, you can find a sample from the Wyoming Judicial Branch's Forms Portal (though this is not a roommate-specific form).

If the Landlord Refuses

Landlords in Wyoming can deny a roommate request if it’s consistent with the lease terms and not discriminatory. However, landlords cannot refuse based on protected characteristics—such as race, religion, or disability—under the federal Fair Housing Act.^[2]

The Tribunal and Relevant Legislation in Wyoming

Wyoming does not have a separate housing tribunal. Rental disputes go through local courts, usually Wyoming Circuit Courts (one for each county). If you believe your landlord is violating the law or your lease, you may need to file in your county circuit court.

The main state law covering rental agreements is the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.^[1]

Practical Example

• You want to add your friend as a roommate. You send your landlord a written request and include your friend’s contact and references.
• The landlord gives you a lease amendment for both of you to sign. You both sign, get copies, and your friend can move in legally.

Adding a roommate the right way helps protect your rights, prevents disputes, and ensures everyone is legally recognized in the rental agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add a roommate without asking my landlord in Wyoming?
   Usually, you cannot. Most leases require landlord approval in writing. Adding someone without permission may violate your lease and risk eviction.
2. Does my new roommate have any rights if not on the lease?
   No, only tenants officially listed on the lease or amendment have the full legal rights and protections under Wyoming law. Informal living arrangements are risky.
3. Can my landlord increase the rent if I add a roommate?
   Landlords in Wyoming can increase rent with proper notice, but only as allowed by your lease terms or upon renewal. Check your lease or request written clarification.
4. What if my landlord refuses to accept my chosen roommate?
   If the refusal is consistent with the lease and not discriminatory, they can deny your request. If you think it’s discrimination, consider contacting the Wyoming Fair Housing office or filing a complaint.
5. Where do I go if I have legal issues about adding a roommate?
   Rental disputes in Wyoming are handled by local Circuit Courts. You can get information or file documentation through your county’s court system.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Always review your lease, get landlord approval in writing, and complete any necessary forms or lease amendments.
• Officially adding a roommate helps avoid misunderstandings, legal issues, and protects your rights.
• Wyoming courts handle tenancy disputes if issues arise.

Proper communication and keeping records ensures a smooth process when adding a roommate in Wyoming.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• State of Wyoming Official Website
• Wyoming Circuit Courts – Handles landlord-tenant disputes
• Wyoming Fair Housing Office – To report discrimination or get fair housing advice
• HUD Wyoming Renter Resources
• Wyoming Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for tenants

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211)
2. Fair Housing Act

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