Is my landlord responsible for cleaning the common garbage canisters?

Full question:

My landlord refuses to clean the common garbage dumping canisters from our apartment which is now overflowing with garbage and causing quite the nuisances for all of us. He says it’s our duty to clean up our own mess. Is this true per the tenancy laws in Wyoming?

Answer:

No, your landlord is responsible for maintaining the rental unit and its premises in a safe and sanitary condition. According to Wyoming law (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1202), landlords must ensure that residential units are fit for human habitation. This includes maintaining common areas, such as garbage disposal facilities, in a sanitary condition.

Specifically, Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1203 outlines the landlord's obligations to protect renters' health and safety, which includes:

  • Ensuring the rental unit is safe and sanitary.
  • Maintaining common areas in a clean and safe condition.
  • Keeping electrical, plumbing, and heating systems operational.

Thus, it is your landlord's duty to address the overflowing garbage issue.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, you can sue your landlord for unsanitary living conditions if they fail to maintain the property in a safe and sanitary manner. Under Wyoming law, landlords are required to keep rental units and common areas clean and safe for tenants. If your landlord neglects these duties, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Document the conditions and communicate with your landlord before pursuing legal action. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*