Louisiana Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in Louisiana
What are the late fee regulations in Louisiana?
Louisiana law requires late fees to be reasonable and specified in the lease agreement. While Louisiana doesn't set a specific cap on late fees, they must be reasonable and clearly stated in the lease. Typically, landlords must wait until rent is at least 3 days late before charging late fees. Courts may find excessive late fees unenforceable.
What are the rules for security deposits in Louisiana?
Louisiana law requires landlords to return security deposits within one month of move-out. Landlords must provide written notice of damages and itemized deductions. Security deposits can be used for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid utilities, and other lease violations. There is no statutory limit on security deposit amounts, but they must be reasonable.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires: 1) 5-day notice for non-payment of rent, 2) 10-day notice for lease violations, 3) 10-day notice for month-to-month termination. Self-help eviction is illegal. Landlords must file court action and obtain court order. Tenants have the right to cure violations within the notice period. Some parishes may have additional local protections.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in Louisiana?
Louisiana law requires landlords to maintain: 1) Building structural components, 2) Plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems, 3) Weather protection, 4) Safe and clean common areas, 5) Garbage facilities, 6) Working smoke detectors. If landlords fail to make repairs after written notice, tenants may have the right to terminate the lease or make repairs and deduct costs from rent under the warranty of habitability.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Louisiana?
Louisiana law requires landlords to provide reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, which is typically considered to be at least 24 hours, except in emergencies. Entry must be at reasonable times. Landlords must state a specific reason for entry. Tenants cannot unreasonably deny access for legitimate purposes like maintenance or showing the unit.
What are the rules for rent increases in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires landlords to provide written notice before any rent increase. For month-to-month tenancies, 10 days notice is required. For fixed-term leases, rent can only be increased at renewal unless specifically allowed in the lease. Rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory. Some parishes may have additional local requirements.
What are my rights regarding repairs in Louisiana?
Louisiana tenants must: 1) Notify landlord in writing of needed repairs, 2) Give landlord reasonable time to make repairs, 3) If landlord fails to make repairs, tenants may be able to terminate the lease, make repairs and deduct costs, or seek damages through court under the warranty of habitability. Keep all documentation of repair requests and responses. The specific remedy depends on the severity of the issue.
What are the rules about security deposit deductions in Louisiana?
Louisiana landlords can deduct for: 1) Unpaid rent, 2) Damage beyond normal wear and tear, 3) Other lease violations. They must return deposits within one month of move-out and provide itemized list of damages. Tenants must provide forwarding address. Tenants can dispute deductions through small claims court or justice of the peace court.
What are Louisiana's requirements for smoke detectors?
Louisiana law requires working smoke detectors in all rental units. They must be installed according to manufacturer specifications and local building codes. Landlords must ensure detectors are working at move-in and maintain hardwired systems. Tenants are responsible for battery replacement and testing during tenancy. Tampering with detectors is prohibited by law.
What disclosures are required from Louisiana landlords?
Louisiana landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978 buildings) • Known environmental hazards • Security deposit terms • Property manager/owner contact information • Utility arrangements • Known material defects • Building code violations • Any existing damage to the unit • Mold disclosure • Flood history and flood zone status • Information about prior methamphetamine manufacture if applicable
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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
