How to Transfer Your Lease to a New Tenant in Wyoming

Sometimes, life changes and you may need to move before your lease ends. In Wyoming, renters may be able to transfer their lease to a new tenant—a process sometimes called subletting or assigning a lease. This guide explains how transferring a lease works in Wyoming, what steps are involved, and where to find official forms and support.

Understanding Lease Transfers in Wyoming

Transferring a lease allows you to have someone else take over your rental agreement for the rest of its term. This can happen in two main ways:

• Subletting: You rent your place to a new tenant while retaining some responsibility.
• Lease Assignment: You transfer all of your rights and obligations under the lease to another person.

Wyoming law doesn’t require landlords to allow lease transfers. Most leases will state whether subletting or assignment is allowed, and usually require your landlord’s written consent. Be sure to check your lease agreement closely before starting the process.¹

Key Steps for Lease Transfer in Wyoming

The process can feel daunting, but breaking it down helps. Here are the most important steps, explained in plain language:

1. Review Your Lease Agreement

• Look for any clauses about "subletting" or "assignment."
• Check if you need landlord approval, and what notices or applications may be required.

2. Talk to Your Landlord

• Contact your landlord in writing (email or letter) to ask if you can transfer the lease.
• Explain why you need to move and your proposed timeline.
• If allowed, request copies of any official forms they want you to use.

3. Complete Required Forms and Obtain Consent

• Ask if your landlord has an official "Sublease Consent" or "Assignment of Lease" form. If no standard form is provided, create a written agreement outlining the terms and parties involved.
• Ensure all parties (you, the landlord, and the new tenant) sign the document. This protects everyone’s rights and responsibilities.
• Keep a copy of all signed forms for your records.
• Official Wyoming housing forms are not standardized for lease assignments, but you may find templates or suggestions on the Wyoming Judiciary Self-Help Center.

4. New Tenant Screening

• The landlord may require the new tenant to fill out a rental application or undergo a background check.
• Provide the new tenant with all necessary information about the residence and lease.

5. Confirm Transfer and Move Out

• Once approved, get written confirmation from the landlord of the lease transfer or assignment.
• Settle any outstanding rent, utilities, or damages before moving out to avoid future disputes.

If you move out without a proper lease transfer or without landlord approval, you may still be responsible for rent until the lease ends or a new tenant moves in.

Wyoming's Law and Official Contacts

Wyoming’s main tenancy regulations are found in the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.¹ While Wyoming does not have a formal landlord-tenant board, disputes are ordinarily handled by local district or circuit courts. For assistance, use the Wyoming Judicial Branch website for court locator tools and self-help resources.²

What to Do if There's a Dispute

• If your landlord unreasonably refuses consent for a lease transfer when your lease allows it, consider seeking mediation, or legal help.
• Court forms for other tenancy matters (like deposit disputes or evictions) are available on the Wyoming Self-Help Center.

FAQ

1. Do I need my landlord's permission to transfer my lease in Wyoming?
   Yes. Most leases require written landlord approval before you can sublet or assign your lease to another person.
2. What happens if I transfer my lease without approval?
   You may still be legally responsible for rent, and your landlord could terminate the lease or pursue damages if the transfer is unauthorized.
3. Can my landlord refuse to let me transfer my lease?
   In Wyoming, landlords typically have the right to refuse unless your lease specifically says a transfer is allowed.
4. Where can I find forms for subletting or assigning a lease?
   There are no standard statewide forms, but check the Wyoming Judiciary Self-Help Center or ask your landlord for the correct form.
5. Which court handles lease transfer disputes in Wyoming?
   Lease disputes are generally handled by your local district or circuit court. You can find your court on the Wyoming court locator.

Conclusion: What Wyoming Renters Should Remember

• Always check your lease for transfer or sublet provisions first.
• Get your landlord’s approval in writing and make sure forms are signed by all parties.
• Keep records of all communications and completed forms to protect your rights.

Following the proper steps and taking care with documentation can make the process much smoother and help you avoid legal problems down the road.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Judiciary Self-Help Center: Forms and Tenant Guides
• Wyoming Court Locator: Find Your District or Circuit Court
• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (complete legislation PDF)
• If you need free or low-cost legal help, contact Legal Aid of Wyoming at www.lawyoming.org

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (W.S. § 1-21-1201 et seq.)
2. Wyoming Judicial Branch – Landlord & Tenant Self-Help Center

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