Wyoming Utilities Setup Checklist for New Renters

When moving into a new rental home or apartment in Wyoming, setting up essential utilities—like electricity, water, gas, and internet—can feel overwhelming. This checklist guides renters through the process based on Wyoming law and official government resources, making move-in smooth and stress-free.

What Utilities Should Wyoming Renters Set Up?

Most rental homes in Wyoming require renters to set up and pay for their own utilities unless otherwise stated in the lease agreement. Essential utilities typically include:

• Electricity and Gas
• Water and Sewer
• Trash Collection
• Internet and Cable
• Optional: Propane, if your unit uses it

Review your lease to confirm which utilities are your responsibility and which, if any, are covered by the landlord.

Step-by-Step Utilities Setup Checklist

1. Review Your Lease Agreement

• Check for a list of utilities included in your rent.
• Identify if you need to transfer any utilities into your name.
• Note move-in and move-out inspection dates.

2. Gather Required Documentation

• Proof of identification (such as a driver’s license).
• Your signed lease agreement.
• Any move-in inspection forms (more below).

3. Contact Local Utility Providers

Each Wyoming city or county may have different utility providers. You can use the Wyoming Public Service Commission's list of regulated companies to find contact information for your area.

• Electricity & Gas: Common providers include Rocky Mountain Power and Black Hills Energy.
• Water, Sewer & Trash: Often managed by the city or town’s utility department. Contact your city office—see the Wyoming city and town directory.
• Internet & Cable: Private service providers are available—your landlord or leasing office may recommend local companies.

4. Complete Required Forms

• City Utility Service Application: Typically required for water, sewer, or trash service. For example, the City of Cheyenne requires the Cheyenne Water Department Service Request Form. Submit this before your move-in date to avoid delays.
• Move-In Inspection Checklist: While not required by state law, many landlords provide a move-in checklist form. Use it to document any existing issues and utility meter readings on move-in day.

If no checklist is provided, consider using the HUD Sample Move-In/Move-Out Checklist to protect your interests.

5. Confirm Utility Activation Dates

• Set up utility service start dates to align with your move-in.
• Some providers may require a credit check, deposit, or signed service agreement from the renter.

6. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities

Wyoming landlords must clearly state in the rental agreement who is responsible for each utility. If utilities are not clearly stated or are shut off without proper notice, renters may have rights under Wyoming Residential Rental Property Statutes.¹

If a utility issue is unresolved and impacts habitability (e.g., no heat or water), contact your landlord in writing promptly—keep a copy for your records. If the issue persists, consider contacting the Wyoming Public Service Commission for utility concerns or review guidance from the Wyoming Department of Family Services: Housing Division.

Key Official Forms for Utility Setup

• City Utility Service Application Form: Example: Cheyenne Water Department Service Request Form. Use this before moving in to start water, sewer or trash collection. Submit online, in-person or via mail as indicated by your city's instructions.
• Move-In Checklist (no official state form): Document current property condition and utility meter readings. If your landlord does not provide one, consider using the HUD Sample Move-In/Move-Out Checklist.

Always check directly with your local utility provider or city for the correct application form and instructions relevant to your Wyoming location.

What to Do If Utility Issues Arise

If your utilities are not activated as agreed, or you discover a problem with habitability (such as a main system not working):

• Contact your landlord immediately in writing.
• Document the date, nature of the issue, and any responses.
• If unresolved, reach out to the Wyoming Public Service Commission for regulated utilities, or contact your city’s utility division.

For ongoing disputes about landlord responsibilities or for legal help, consider consulting the Legal Aid of Wyoming.

Frequently Asked Questions: Wyoming Utility Setup for Renters

1. Which utilities am I responsible for setting up as a Wyoming renter?
   Generally, electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, internet, and cable are the renter’s responsibility unless your lease states otherwise. Always confirm with your landlord.
2. Are there deposit requirements for utility setup?
   Some providers may require a deposit or credit check, especially if you’re a new customer or have no prior usage history. Check with your specific utility provider for details.
3. What do I do if a landlord won’t turn on required utilities?
   Notify your landlord in writing. If the problem is not resolved promptly and it affects your ability to live in the home, contact the Wyoming Public Service Commission and retain copies of all correspondence.
4. What form do I use to apply for water or city utilities?
   Most Wyoming cities, such as Cheyenne, use their own "City Utility Service Application" forms. Find your local city’s official website or public works department to access the correct form.
5. Is a move-in inspection checklist required in Wyoming?
   State law does not require a specific form, but a move-in checklist is highly recommended to prevent disputes over property or utility conditions later.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Start utility setup early to avoid service gaps on move-in day.
• Always use official forms—such as your city’s utility application—for utility connections.
• Keep all records and communicate in writing with your landlord about utility questions or issues.

With these straightforward steps, Wyoming renters can ensure their new homes are comfortable and ready as soon as they move in.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Public Service Commission: Utility complaints, regulation info, and provider contacts
• Wyoming Department of Family Services - Housing Division: Housing assistance, utility help, and policy resources
• Legal Aid of Wyoming: Legal help for rental and utility disputes

---

1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Statutes (W.S. 1-21-1201 through 1-21-1211)

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