Tenants always have a basic right to their privacy and to peaceful enjoyment of their rental unit. However, at some point during a tenancy the landlord will need to enter the rental unit for either emergency or non-emergency repairs and maintenance. This “right to entry” is specifically addressed in a rental agreement and provides required notice periods for both emergency and non-emergency situations.
Emergency vs. Non-Emergency
Of course, if there is an emergency the landlord has the legal right to enter the unit. The landlord has the right and obligation to ascertain the safety and security of the occupants and the property itself. Emergencies are fairly self-explanatory, but they could include situations such as fire, natural disaster, or if a law enforcement officer requires access to the unit.
On the other hand, general maintenance issues, either ongoing or requested by the tenant, are the main reasons for a landlord to require non-emergency entry to a rental unit. Wyoming landlord tenant law does not specify all of the non-emergency reasons to enter a unit, but SDCL § 43-32-32 does specify that “reasonable notice” must be provided, and that a minimum of 24 hours written notice is considered reasonable. It’s also a good idea, while not required, to leave a written receipt of entry in the unit. Note the date and time of entry, time of departure, and reason for entry as a record for the tenant and the landlord.