RUBS Utility Billing: Wyoming Renters’ Guide

If you rent an apartment or home in Wyoming, you may come across the term Ratio Utility Billing System, or RUBS, in your lease. RUBS is a common way landlords divide up utility costs (like water, trash, or sewage) among tenants when properties don’t have separate utility meters. Understanding how RUBS utility billing works in Wyoming can help you avoid surprises and ensure your rights are respected under state law.

What Is RUBS and When Is It Used?

RUBS stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. It’s a method used by landlords or property managers to allocate the cost of certain utilities to tenants based on a formula, rather than individual meters. The allocation might be based on:

• The number of occupants in your unit
• The square footage of your rental
• Number of bedrooms

Rather than billing for actual usage, RUBS estimates your share and includes it as a separate line item on your monthly statement. This method is often used in multi-unit buildings where installing separate meters isn't practical.

Is RUBS Legal in Wyoming?

Wyoming law does not specifically prohibit or regulate the use of RUBS for utility billing in residential rentals. However, all utility charges must be addressed in your Wyoming Residential Rental Agreements Act and clearly stated in your written lease agreement.¹ Your landlord cannot charge you utilities unless your lease or rental agreement specifies:

• Which utilities you are responsible for
• How your portion of the bill will be calculated (including the use of RUBS)
• How and when you’ll receive the bill

Tip: Always review your lease for clear language about how utility costs are distributed. If in doubt, ask for an explanation in writing from your landlord.

Your Rights and Responsibilities With RUBS

As a renter in Wyoming, you have the right to:

• Receive notice of any rent or utility bill increases, as outlined in your lease
• Understand exactly how your portion of the utility charge is calculated
• Request a breakdown of how the RUBS formula applies to your unit
• Challenge charges you believe are not in line with your written agreement

Tenants are generally responsible only for utility charges specified in their contracts. Landlords may not add extra fees or change the calculation method without providing proper notice, as required by your lease.

Common RUBS Utility Billing Disputes

Disagreements can arise if the landlord changes the billing method, charges unexplained fees, or fails to provide detailed calculations. In these situations, a renter should:

• Check their lease and any written utility addendums for agreed terms
• Request a written breakdown of the latest billing method
• Communicate disputes in writing to the landlord (keep copies)

If disputes aren’t resolved, Wyoming renters may seek assistance from state offices or by filing a complaint in small claims court.

Key Form: Small Claims Complaint (Form SC-1)

• Form Name/Number: Small Claims Complaint (Form SC-1)
• When to Use: If negotiations fail, you may use this form to begin a small claims case against your landlord to recover disputed utility overcharges (up to $6,000). For example, if you believe your landlord overcharged you using an incorrect RUBS calculation and will not resolve it, you may file.
• Official Source: Small Claims Complaint (Form SC-1)

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Wyoming?

Wyoming does not have a statewide residential tenancy board or housing authority that directly manages landlord-tenant disputes. Issues are generally handled through local circuit courts and the Wyoming judicial system.

Relevant Legislation

Utility billing practices and tenant rights in Wyoming are covered under the Wyoming Residential Rental Agreements Act (Title 1, Chapter 21 of the Wyoming Statutes)¹. This law sets out the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, including requirements for written agreements regarding rent and utilities.

Remember: Always ask for your utility billing breakdown if you’re unsure about charges. Keep all records and communications for your files.

FAQs About RUBS Utility Billing for Wyoming Renters

1. Is my landlord required to use RUBS in Wyoming? No, landlords are not required to use RUBS. If your property uses it, this must be explained in your lease and agreed to by both parties.
2. What if I think my RUBS utility bill is too high? You can request a detailed calculation from your landlord. If you still disagree, you may raise the issue in writing and seek help from your local circuit court if necessary.
3. Are there limits on RUBS charges in Wyoming? Wyoming law does not set a maximum for RUBS utility charges. However, landlords can only charge what is specified and agreed to in the lease.
4. Can my landlord change how utilities are billed mid-lease? No, your landlord cannot change how utilities are billed during a fixed lease term without your written consent. Any changes should be documented in a new agreement or addendum.
5. Where do I file a RUBS billing dispute? Most disputes are resolved in your local circuit court, which handles small claims matters involving rental housing and utility billing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• RUBS billing must be clearly described in your lease agreement.
• You have the right to request breakdowns and explanations of utility charges.
• For unresolved disputes, use Wyoming’s small claims court process.

Get answers before you sign: transparently outlined utility billing protects both renters and landlords from confusion or conflict.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Circuit Courts Directory – Find your local courthouse for rental disputes
• Wyoming Attorney General – Consumer Protection Unit – Report unfair practices
• Legal Aid of Wyoming – Tenant/Landlord Information
• Wyoming Residential Rental Agreements Act (PDF)

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Agreements Act (Title 1, Chapter 21 of the Wyoming Statutes)

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