Wyoming does not have any rent control laws at the state level, nor do any cities or municipalities within the state have enacted local rent control ordinances. This means there are no legal caps on how much a landlord can increase rent when a lease expires or for new tenancies. Landlords are free to set rental rates based on market conditions.
Notice Requirements
Landlords must follow specific notice requirements when increasing rent:
Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This allows tenants time to consider their options or negotiate with the landlord.
Fixed-Term Leases: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease agreement specifically allows for mid-term increases. Otherwise, increases can only take effect at the end of the lease, with proper notice.
How Rent Increases Must Be Communicated
A rent increase must be communicated in writing, specifying:
The current rent amount
The new rent amount
The effective date of the increase
This formal notice helps ensure clarity and legal compliance.
Legal Protections
While there is no cap on the amount of rent increase, tenants are protected in several ways:
No Discrimination: Rent increases cannot be based on race, gender, religion, disability, familial status, or other protected characteristics under federal and state fair housing laws.
No Retaliation: Landlords cannot increase rent in retaliation for a tenant exercising legal rights, such as reporting unsafe conditions or joining a tenant organization.
Lease Terms: The lease agreement may contain clauses about how and when rent can be increased, so tenants should review their lease carefully.
What Tenants Can Do
Review Your Lease: Check for any clauses about rent increases and required notice periods.
Negotiate: If a proposed increase seems excessive, tenants can try to negotiate with the landlord.
Seek Help: If a rent increase appears discriminatory or retaliatory, tenants can file a complaint with the local housing authority or seek legal advice.
Market Comparison: Research comparable rental rates in your area to determine if the increase is in line with market conditions.
Sources:
1. https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/11/wyoming-rent-increase-laws-2025-what-tenants-should-know/
2. https://thewrangler.com/wyoming-rent-increase-laws-2025-what-tenants-should-know/2025/06/04/
3. https://www.hemlane.com/resources/wyoming-tenant-landlord-law/
