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Louisiana State Regulations of Rental Housing: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

Writer's picture: Contempo PropertiesContempo Properties

Regarding rental housing in Louisiana, landlords and tenants must adhere to specific state regulations designed to ensure fair housing practices and protect the rights of all parties involved. Understanding these regulations is critical for a successful and legally sound rental arrangement. Whether you are a landlord or tenant, here's an overview of the key Louisiana state regulations governing rental housing.


1. Rental Agreements and Leases

In Louisiana, a rental agreement can be written or verbal, though having a written lease is highly recommended for clarity. A lease outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, including:

  • Rental amount: The agreed-upon monthly rent, due date, and payment method.

  • Lease term: Whether it's a fixed-term lease (typically 6 or 12 months) or a month-to-month arrangement.

  • Security deposit: The amount and conditions for withholding or returning it.

  • Late fees: Landlords can charge late fees, which must be outlined in the lease.

Louisiana law does not set limits on rental amounts or require rent control, meaning landlords are generally free to charge what the market will bear.

2. Security Deposits

The state's security deposit laws protect tenants and ensure transparency. Louisiana landlords may request a security deposit, which usually equals one or two months’ rent. Upon lease termination, landlords have 30 days to return the deposit, minus any allowable deductions for damages, unpaid rent, or necessary repairs.

If the landlord does not return the security deposit or fails to provide an itemized list of deductions, the tenant can take legal action and may be entitled to recover the deposit, plus any associated legal costs.

3. Habitability Standards and Maintenance

Landlords in Louisiana are legally required to maintain the rental property in a habitable condition, which means providing a dwelling that is safe, clean, and fit for living. Some specific requirements include:

  • Running water, plumbing, and heating: Basic utilities must be functional.

  • Structural integrity: The building must be structurally sound, and free from significant damage that could endanger tenants.

  • Compliance with building codes: The rental unit must comply with local housing codes.

If a landlord fails to meet these habitability standards, tenants may withhold rent or terminate the lease, but it’s advisable to seek legal advice before taking any such steps.

4. Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants in Louisiana are responsible for keeping the rental unit in a reasonably clean and orderly condition. They must:

  • Pay rent on time: Timely rent payment is essential to avoid eviction.

  • Avoid property damage: Tenants must take reasonable care of the property and avoid causing damage.

  • Notify the landlord of necessary repairs: Tenants should report maintenance issues promptly to allow the landlord an opportunity to address them.

5. Evictions

Evictions in Louisiana must follow a specific legal process, and landlords cannot simply lock out tenants or shut off utilities without due cause. The most common reasons for eviction include:

  • Nonpayment of rent

  • Violation of lease terms: Such as unauthorized subletting or having pets in a no-pet unit.

  • Failure to vacate after the lease expires or proper notice is given.

Landlords must provide a 5-day written notice to vacate for nonpayment of rent. If the tenant does not leave, the landlord can file for eviction in court. Following a court ruling, the sheriff can forcibly remove the tenant if they still refuse to vacate.

6. Rent Control and Rent Increases

Louisiana does not impose rent control, meaning landlords are free to raise rent as they see fit. However, to increase the rent, landlords must provide proper notice:

  • Month-to-month leases: A written 10-day notice is required before the next rent cycle.

  • Fixed-term leases: Rent cannot be raised during the lease period unless the lease agreement explicitly allows it.

7. Termination of Lease

Tenants can terminate a lease if they provide proper notice, which depends on the type of lease:

  • Fixed-term leases: Typically require a 30-day notice before the end of the term if tenants do not wish to renew.

  • Month-to-month leases: Require a 10-day notice for termination.

In cases of domestic violence, Louisiana law offers additional protections, allowing tenants to break a lease early without penalty by providing written notice and appropriate documentation.

8. Anti-Discrimination Laws

Landlords in Louisiana must comply with both federal and state anti-discrimination laws. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on:

  • Race, color, or national origin

  • Religion

  • Sex

  • Familial status

  • Disability

In Louisiana, additional protections may also apply at the local level. Violations of anti-discrimination laws can lead to severe penalties, including legal action against the landlord.

9. Renters’ Insurance

While renters’ insurance is not legally required, many Louisiana landlords now include a clause in the lease mandating tenants to purchase coverage. Renters' insurance helps protect the tenant’s personal property in the event of theft, fire, or other damage and can offer liability protection.


Conclusion

Understanding the rental housing regulations in Louisiana is essential for both landlords and tenants to maintain a fair and legally sound rental relationship. Whether it’s following proper eviction procedures, maintaining the property, or adhering to lease agreements, these laws ensure both parties' rights are respected. Familiarize yourself with these rules to avoid disputes and create a successful renting experience in the state.


If you're a landlord or tenant looking for more information on Louisiana rental housing laws, be sure to consult legal professionals or visit official state resources to stay up-to-date with the latest changes.


Disclaimer: 

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the content is accurate and up-to-date, rental housing laws and regulations may change, and the application of the law can vary based on specific circumstances. We recommend consulting a qualified attorney or legal professional for advice tailored to your situation. The author and publisher are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information in this blog.


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