Landlord’s Obligations in New Orleans: What You Need to Know in 2025

Owning rental property in New Orleans can be a rewarding investment, but it also comes with a set of legal responsibilities. Whether you’re renting out a shotgun double in Mid-City or managing a multi-unit complex in the CBD, understanding your obligations as a landlord is essential for staying compliant and protecting both your tenants and your business.

Here’s a breakdown of key landlord responsibilities in New Orleans as of 2025.

1. Providing Safe and Habitable Housing

Louisiana law—and by extension, New Orleans city codes—requires landlords to ensure that rental properties are safe, sanitary, and livable. This includes:

Functioning plumbing, electrical, and heating systems
Safe structural elements (roof, stairs, flooring, etc.)
Pest-free conditions
Working smoke detectors and (if required) carbon monoxide detectors
Adequate locks on doors and windows

🏡 New in 2025: The City of New Orleans has introduced stricter enforcement of the Healthy Homes ordinance, which means more frequent inspections and potential fines for substandard housing.

2. Compliance with Local Rental Registry Requirements

As part of New Orleans' continuing effort to improve rental housing standards, landlords must register their rental properties with the city. This includes:

Listing all rental units
Paying a registration fee
Keeping contact information current
Passing health and safety inspections for certain property types

❗ Reminder: Failure to register your rental can result in penalties or even loss of rental privileges.

3. Fair Housing Compliance

Landlords are prohibited from discriminating against tenants or applicants based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. New Orleans also has protections for:

Sexual orientation and gender identity
Source of income (including housing vouchers like Section 8)

Make sure your tenant screening process is fair, transparent, and well-documented.

4. Lease Agreements and Disclosures

You must provide a written lease that outlines:

Rent amount and due date
Security deposit terms
Duration of the lease
Maintenance responsibilities
Policies on pets, utilities, late fees, etc.

🔎 Tip: In 2025, landlords in Orleans Parish must also provide tenants with a “Tenant’s Rights Handbook” at lease signing, per city ordinance.

5. Maintenance and Repairs

You’re responsible for making timely repairs when notified by tenants. In New Orleans, failure to address serious habitability issues can lead to tenant complaints to the Office of Code Enforcement, or even legal action.

⏱️ Timeline to act: Landlords are generally expected to begin addressing urgent repairs (like plumbing or heating failures) within 24 to 48 hours.

6. Security Deposits

Louisiana law allows landlords to collect security deposits, but they must be:

Returned within 30 days after lease termination
Accompanied by an itemized list of any deductions for damage or unpaid rent

💡 Best Practice: Keep detailed records of property condition and any maintenance performed during the lease.

7. Evictions and Legal Process

Evictions must follow a legal process—you cannot simply lock a tenant out or remove their belongings.

A 5-day notice is typically required before filing for eviction
Evictions are handled through the Orleans Parish Civil District Court
Self-help evictions are illegal and can result in fines

⚖️ Important in 2025: Some neighborhoods now require mediation attempts before an eviction can be finalized.

Final Thoughts

Being a landlord in New Orleans means more than just collecting rent—it’s about providing a safe, lawful, and respectful living environment. Staying on top of your obligations not only protects your tenants but also helps your rental business thrive in 2025 and beyond.

If you’re unsure about your compliance, consider consulting with a local property attorney or property management company to make sure your bases are covered.

Disclaimer:

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change, and interpretations may vary. Landlords and property managers in New Orleans should consult with a qualified attorney or local housing authority for advice specific to their situation. The author and publisher disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information contained in this article.