Wyoming Laws: Deadlines to Sue Your Landlord Explained

If you are renting a home or apartment in Wyoming, understanding your legal rights—especially when conflicts with your landlord arise—is important. If you've faced issues like withheld security deposits, uncompleted repairs, or unlawful eviction, you may want to take legal action. This guide explains Wyoming's time limits (also called "statutes of limitations") for suing a landlord, including forms, official contacts, and clear steps to help you act before deadlines pass.

What Are Wyoming's Statutes of Limitations for Suing a Landlord?

Wyoming law sets strict deadlines for when renters can bring legal claims against landlords. If you wait too long, the court may dismiss your case, even if you have a strong claim.

• Written Lease Disputes: You usually have 10 years to sue over breaches of a written lease. This covers most lease agreements between tenants and landlords in Wyoming.
• Oral Lease or Contract Disputes: If your agreement with your landlord was not in writing, you typically have 8 years to take legal action.
• Security Deposit Returns: Most renters sue over this issue under breach of contract rules (10 years if written, 8 years if unwritten), but you must request the deposit return and allow your landlord the official time allowed by law first.
• Personal Injury or Property Damage: Claims for damages to belongings or injury (for example, due to unsafe conditions) must be filed within 4 years.

Wyoming's time limits are set by Wyoming Statutes Title 1 - Civil Procedure, Chapter 3 - Limitations of Actions^[1].

Official Tribunal for Landlord–Tenant Disputes

In Wyoming, landlord-tenant disputes are generally handled in the local Circuit Court. This is where you would file lawsuits such as for withheld security deposits or improper evictions.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

• Wyoming Statutes Title 1 - Civil Procedure covers statutes of limitation and court procedures.
• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 1-21-1201 et seq.) explains landlord and tenant responsibilities.

Steps: How to Sue a Landlord in Wyoming

If negotiations have failed and you need to take legal action, follow these steps:

• Try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord (keep records of communication).
• Send any required written requests (for example, for the return of your security deposit).
• Gather evidence such as your lease, letters, receipts, and photos.
• Prepare the right forms (see below) and file your case with the appropriate Wyoming Circuit Court.
• Pay any required filing fees or request a fee waiver if you qualify.
• Serve (officially deliver) papers to your landlord, as instructed by the court.

Every situation is unique, and following the court's procedures is key to a successful filing.

Official Forms for Renters in Wyoming

• Civil Complaint (Form DC-CV-1)
  When to use: This is the main form to start a lawsuit against your landlord in Wyoming Circuit Court. Example: You use this form after your landlord refuses to return your security deposit beyond the 30-day legal period.
  Download Civil Complaint (Form DC-CV-1) from the Wyoming Judicial Branch
• Application for Waiver of Filing Fee
  When to use: If you cannot afford the court's filing fee, submit this form with your complaint.
  Download Application for Waiver of Filing Fee

File these forms at the Circuit Court covering your rental's location. Always ask court staff if you're unsure how to proceed.

Key Tips for Wyoming Renters

Missing the statute of limitation—even by a day—could mean losing your right to have your case heard.

FAQ: Wyoming Renters and Legal Deadlines

1. How long do I have to sue my landlord over a security deposit in Wyoming?
   You usually have up to 10 years if your lease is written (8 years if unwritten). However, try to resolve with your landlord and allow the legal time for them to return your deposit before suing.
2. What happens if the statute of limitations passes?
   After the deadline, courts will almost always dismiss your case—even if your claim is otherwise valid.
3. Which court handles landlord-tenant lawsuits in Wyoming?
   Most renter lawsuits (like for withheld deposits or property damage) are filed at the Wyoming Circuit Court for your county.
4. What evidence do I need to sue my landlord?
   Gather your lease agreement, move-in/move-out photos, written notices, correspondence, and receipts related to the dispute.
5. Can I get help if I can't afford filing fees?
   Yes. Complete the Application for Waiver of Filing Fee and submit it with your other forms to ask the court to waive costs.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Deadlines to sue landlords in Wyoming depend on the type of lease and claim—know your time limit before you file.
• Use official forms (like Civil Complaint DC-CV-1) and file at the Circuit Court serving your area.
• Act as soon as possible to protect your rights; missing the deadline means losing your chance.

Being aware of Wyoming's statutes of limitations helps renters resolve disputes confidently and avoid missing crucial deadlines.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Circuit Courts: Learn where to file and get local contact information.
• Wyoming Attorney General – Consumer Protection/ Landlord-Tenant: Resources and complaint contacts for renters.
• Legal Services Corporation (LSC): Find free or low-cost legal aid for renters in Wyoming.
• Wyoming Statutes Title 1 – Civil Procedure: Read the official law on limitation periods.

---

1. Wyoming Statutes Title 1 - Civil Procedure, Chapter 3 - Limitations of Actions
2. Wyoming Circuit Court information
3. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 1-21-1201 et seq.)
4. Wyoming Judicial Branch – Civil Complaint Form DC-CV-1
5. Application for Waiver of Filing Fee

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations