Wyoming Rules for Tenant Property Left Behind

Moving out of a rental home in Wyoming can come with unexpected questions—especially about what happens if you accidentally leave behind some personal belongings. Knowing Wyoming’s abandonment rules can help renters avoid stress and protect their rights during the transition.

Understanding Abandonment of Tenant Property in Wyoming

In Wyoming, specific laws outline what landlords must do if you leave belongings after moving out or eviction. These rules help ensure a fair process for both tenants and property owners, guarding your property while providing clarity for everyone involved.

How Wyoming Defines Abandonment

Abandonment refers to a situation where a tenant leaves the rental unit and their personal property behind without notice or communication with the landlord. Under Wyoming Statutes Title 1, Chapter 21, Article 12 - Residential Rental Property Act, property can be considered abandoned if:

• The lease has expired or been terminated
• The tenant has removed most of their belongings
• No rent is paid, and there is reason to believe the tenant will not return

If these conditions are met, a landlord may declare the property abandoned and begin procedures for storing, returning, or disposing of your belongings¹.

What Happens to Left-Behind Belongings?

Once property is considered abandoned, Wyoming law requires landlords to follow specific steps:

• Storage: Landlords must safely store your items for at least seven (7) days.
• Written Notice: The landlord must try to notify you in writing at your last known address (or by reasonable means).
• Opportunity to Reclaim: You have seven (7) days from the notice to collect your belongings. You may need to pay reasonable costs for storage and removal.
• Disposal: After seven days without response, the landlord can sell, donate, or throw away the items.

If you’re unable to return quickly for your belongings, contact your landlord as soon as possible to make arrangements.

Key Timelines and Deadlines

• Landlord must store belongings for at least 7 days after giving notice
• After 7 days, landlord may dispose of items, but must make a reasonable effort to contact you first

These rules are outlined in Wyoming Statute § 1-21-1210.

What Forms Do Renters or Landlords Need?

• Notice of Abandoned Personal Property: While Wyoming does not supply a standardized form, landlords typically send a written letter to your last known address.
  If you receive this notice, respond promptly and in writing to secure your items or arrange pickup.
• Complaint for Return of Property (if needed): If you believe your property was wrongly withheld or disposed of, you may file a claim in Wyoming Circuit Court. Forms and filing instructions are available through the Wyoming Judicial Branch Forms page.

Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

Wyoming does not have a specialized tenant-landlord tribunal. Most disputes—including claims about left-behind property—are handled by the local Wyoming Circuit Courts. For further landlord-tenant resources, visit the Wyoming Judicial Branch official website.

Action Steps: What to Do If You Left Property After Moving Out

• Check your lease for any specific terms regarding abandoned property
• Contact your landlord promptly if you realize you left belongings behind
• Keep written records of all communication about your property
• Retrieve your belongings within seven days after receiving written notice
• If you believe your property has been improperly handled, consult the Wyoming Judicial Branch Forms for possible legal action

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