Wyoming Renters: Asbestos in Older Buildings – Your Rights

Many renters in Wyoming live in older apartments or homes, where asbestos-containing materials may still be present. Knowing your rights and your landlord’s responsibilities is essential, especially if you’re concerned about health and safety standards related to asbestos in older buildings. This guide walks you through key rights, landlord obligations, and what steps to take if you believe asbestos may be an issue in your rented space.

Understanding Asbestos in Older Rentals

Asbestos is a mineral fiber found in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor coverings, and other building materials—especially in structures built before 1980. If disturbed, asbestos can release fibers that may cause serious illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. For renters, the presence of asbestos becomes a major concern when building materials are damaged or under renovation.

• Your landlord is responsible for maintaining a safe and habitable rental property (Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, Section 1-21-1202)^[1].
• Asbestos that is sealed and in good condition is usually not dangerous, but damaged or deteriorating materials can create a hazard.
• There are federal and state regulations on asbestos handling; however, Wyoming has no law requiring landlords to proactively remove asbestos unless it poses a health risk.

Landlord Duties and Tenant Rights Regarding Asbestos

Wyoming law requires landlords to maintain rental properties so they are fit for living. This includes protecting tenants from significant health hazards, which can include unsafe asbestos exposure.

• Landlords must address dangerous asbestos conditions when notified by tenants or discovered during inspections.
• If there is an unsafe asbestos issue, landlords must make repairs or remediate the hazard promptly.
• Tenants have the right to request safety information about the property and to notify their landlord in writing if they suspect asbestos-related risks.

While Wyoming does not have a specific official form for asbestos complaints, you should always deliver written notice to your landlord regarding dangerous conditions, keeping a copy for your own records.

How to Request Repairs or Report an Asbestos Risk

• Written Notice: Wyoming law recommends submitting maintenance requests in writing. This creates a record if you need to take further action.
• You may use the template letter provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for reporting serious repair issues.

Relevant Wyoming Legislation and Where to Get Support

• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act covers tenant and landlord obligations, including habitability standards.^[1]
• Federal regulations for asbestos are set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• There is no official specific asbestos complaint form or board for residential tenancies in Wyoming. Most housing disputes, including asbestos hazards, are resolved through written landlord notices and, if needed, with local courts.

If you receive no response from your landlord after a written request regarding asbestos, you may consider contacting your local health department (listed on the Wyoming Department of Health website) or seeking legal advice through a tenant advocacy organization. The tribunal for rental disputes is the Wyoming Circuit Court.

What If My Landlord Does Not Act?

If repairs or remediation are not completed within a reasonable time after your written request, you may be able to:

• File a complaint with your local health department if the hazard is immediate and health-related.
• Seek resolution through the Wyoming Circuit Court under the Residential Rental Property Act.

Always keep copies of every written notice and any communications with your landlord for your protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should a renter do if asbestos is suspected in their apartment?
   Notify your landlord in writing about your concerns and ask for an inspection. Do not disturb any materials you think contain asbestos. If a response is not provided or the repair is delayed, contact your local health department or consider seeking help from the Circuit Court.
2. Are Wyoming landlords legally required to remove asbestos?
   Landlords are not required to remove all asbestos-containing materials, but they must remediate dangerous conditions and ensure the rental remains habitable according to the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.
3. Who can test for asbestos in a rental property?
   Only trained professionals should inspect or test for asbestos. The EPA provides guidance on licensed testing professionals.
4. What if the landlord ignores my written request about asbestos?
   If your landlord fails to respond, save all documentation and consider contacting your county health officer or filing a case with the Wyoming Circuit Court for possible remedies.
5. Is there an official form to file an asbestos-related complaint as a tenant in Wyoming?
   No, there is no dedicated state form for this issue. Use a written notice or letter to your landlord and, if needed, coordinate with local health authorities.

Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Landlords must address any confirmed, dangerous asbestos hazards to maintain your unit’s habitability.
• Always report asbestos concerns in writing and keep copies of all communications.
• If your concerns are not addressed, contact your county health department or seek resolution through the Circuit Courts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Circuit Court – Handles landlord-tenant disputes and habitability claims.
• Wyoming Department of Health – County Health Officers – For health complaints, including asbestos risks.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Wyoming Tenant Rights
• EPA: Asbestos Information for Residents

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, Section 1-21-1202

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