Wyoming Tenant Protections for Domestic Violence Survivors

If you are renting a home in Wyoming and experiencing domestic violence, you have important legal protections under state law. As a tenant, you may have the right to change your locks, end your lease early, and seek emergency protections without retaliation from your landlord. This guide explains your rights, the steps you can take, and where to find help in Wyoming.

Understanding Domestic Violence Tenant Protections in Wyoming

Wyoming offers renters legal safeguards if they are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment. The main state law covering these rights is the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Title 1, Chapter 21)^[1].

Your Key Rights as a Wyoming Renter Experiencing Domestic Violence

• Early Lease Termination: You can end your lease early if you are a victim of domestic violence by providing your landlord with proper written notice and supporting documentation, such as an order of protection. No penalty fees are allowed for breaking the lease under these circumstances.
• Right to Change Locks: You have the right to request that your landlord change the locks promptly to prevent the abuser from entering your residence — at your expense unless waived by your landlord.
• Protection from Retaliation: By law, a landlord cannot evict, penalize, or refuse to renew your lease just because you are asserting your domestic violence rights.

How to Use the Domestic Violence Lease Termination Notice

To break your lease or request emergency protections, you'll need to provide your landlord with a written notice along with appropriate documentation. Wyoming provides a template called the "Notice to Terminate Rental Agreement Due to Domestic Abuse." While there is no universal numbered form, some courts and programs provide sample notices. A court-issued Order of Protection (form available through Wyoming Judicial Branch Family Violence Protection Forms) ^[2] can serve as documentation.

• Form Name: Protective Order Petition & Notice to Landlord
• How It's Used: For example, if you file for a protective order and are granted one, you can deliver a copy of the order to your landlord with your written intent to end your lease. This allows you to leave safely, with no penalties.
• Access Wyoming Family Violence Protection Court Forms

How to Request Lock Changes for Safety

Wyoming law allows renters facing domestic violence to request a lock change. Here's what to do:

• Send a written request to your landlord (email or certified letter recommended).
• Include supporting documents, such as a protective order or police report.
• You may need to pay for the cost of changing the locks, unless your landlord voluntarily covers it.
• Your landlord must change the locks within a reasonable time.

Filing a Complaint or Seeking Further Protection

If your landlord refuses to honor your rights or retaliates against you, you may file a complaint with the Wyoming Attorney General's Consumer Protection Unit or seek assistance from local legal aid services. Civil claims can also be filed in Wyoming civil courts.

Official Wyoming Tribunal and Residential Tenancy Oversight

Wyoming does not have a specialized residential tenancy board. Tenancy matters — including domestic violence protections — are handled through the Wyoming Circuit Courts and the Wyoming Judicial Branch for protection orders and housing petitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me because I am a victim of domestic violence?
   No. Wyoming law protects renters from eviction, penalties, and lease non-renewal based solely on their status as a domestic violence victim.
2. What proof do I need to end my lease if I am facing domestic violence?
   You will need to give your landlord a copy of a court-issued protective order or other official documentation showing you are a victim of domestic violence, along with written notice to terminate.
3. How soon must my landlord change my locks after I request it?
   Your landlord should act within a reasonable time, especially if immediate safety is at risk. Specify your urgency in the written request.
4. Do I have to pay for changing the locks?
   Generally yes, unless your landlord chooses to cover it. You may want to confirm costs before making the request.
5. Where can I file a complaint if my landlord ignores my rights?
   You can contact the Wyoming Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit or file claims in Wyoming Circuit Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Wyoming law gives renters strong protections if they are survivors of domestic violence.
• You can end your lease early and request a lock change for safety.
• Official resources and court forms make it easier to take action and get help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Judicial Branch: Family Violence Protection Forms
• Wyoming Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights
• Legal Aid of Wyoming (Free legal help for eligible renters)
• Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault (24/7 support and shelter)

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1. "Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Title 1, Chapter 21)" – Wyoming State Legislature
2. "Family Violence Protection Forms" – Wyoming Judicial Branch

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