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Legal Rights Handbook

Louisiana Renter Rights & Landlord Laws 2025

Everything tenants and landlords need to know about Louisiana housing laws. Eviction rules, deposits, and rights.

Updated January 15, 2026
5 min read

Louisiana Renter Rights & Landlord Laws Guide 2025

1. Overview: Tenant-Friendly vs. Landlord-Friendly

Louisiana is widely considered a Landlord-Friendly state. The legal framework generally favors property owners, particularly regarding eviction timelines and security deposit handling. The court system is structured to process evictions relatively quickly compared to other states, and there are few regulations limiting how much a landlord can charge for rent.

  • Landlord Friendliness Score: High

2. Security Deposits

Louisiana law (La. Rev. Stat. § 9:3251) places specific limits and obligations on landlords regarding security deposits.

  • Deposit Limits:
    • No Statutory Limit: Louisiana state law does not cap the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. However, it must be "reasonable" based on the property and local market standards.
  • Return Timeline:
    • Landlords must return the deposit, less any lawful deductions, within one month (30 days) after the lease terminates and the tenant vacates.
  • Allowable Deductions:
    • Unpaid rent.
    • Damages beyond normal wear and tear.
    • Costs for cleaning the unit (if specified in the lease).
  • Penalties for Landlords:
    • If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide a written itemization of deductions within 30 days, the tenant may be entitled to recover twice the amount of the deposit plus attorney fees.

3. Eviction Rules

Louisiana has a streamlined eviction process, making it crucial for tenants to respond immediately to any notices.

  • Grounds for Eviction:
    • Non-payment of rent.
    • Violation of lease terms.
    • Holding over after the lease expires.
  • Notice Period (Non-Payment):
    • 5 Days: For non-payment of rent, a landlord must provide a written 5-day notice to pay or vacate. If the tenant does not pay or leave within those 5 days, the landlord may file a lawsuit.
  • The Process:
    1. Notice: Landlord serves a 5-day notice (via sheriff, constable, or certified mail).
    2. Filing: If unresolved, the landlord files a rule for possession in court.
    3. Hearing: A hearing is usually scheduled within 10–30 days. Tenants must appear to assert defenses.
    4. Writ of Possession: If the landlord wins, the sheriff will post a 24-hour notice to vacate before physically removing the tenant.

4. Landlord Entry

Unlike many states, Louisiana does not have a specific state statute requiring landlords to give notice before entering a rental unit.

  • The Standard:
    • While not codified by state law, most leases include a clause requiring 24 hours' notice for non-emergency entries (e.g., repairs, inspections).
  • Best Practice:
    • For Landlords: Always provide written notice to respect tenant privacy and avoid potential harassment claims.
    • For Tenants: Review your lease carefully; if it is silent on entry rights, the landlord technically has the right to enter at reasonable times, but customary courtesy usually implies notice.

5. Rent Control

Louisiana has no rent control laws.

  • Market Freedom:
    • Landlords in major cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport can raise rent to any amount at the end of a lease term, provided proper notice is given (typically 30 days for month-to-month tenancies).
    • There are no state-mandated caps on rent increases.

6. Special Warning for Landlords

Strict Procedural Compliance is Mandatory.

Because Louisiana is landlord-friendly, the courts move quickly to restore possession to the owner—but only if you follow the law to the letter.

  • Avoid "Self-Help" Evictions: Never change the locks, shut off utilities, or remove a tenant's belongings without a court order and a sheriff's writ. This is illegal and can result in the landlord owing the tenant significant damages.
  • Notice Precision: The 5-day notice for non-payment must be perfect. If the math is wrong or the notice is served incorrectly (wrong method or address), the judge will dismiss the case, forcing you to start over.
  • Document Everything: Keep copies of all notices, lease agreements, and communications. The court relies heavily on written evidence.

7. Special Warning for Tenants

You Have Limited Time to Act.

The Louisiana eviction process moves fast. If you receive a 5-day notice, do not ignore it.

  • Respond Immediately: If a lawsuit is filed, you have a short window to file an answer or appear in court. If you miss the hearing, the landlord wins by default.
  • Know Your Lease: Your rights regarding repairs and entry are likely defined in your lease. If you withhold rent due to repair issues without following specific legal procedures (such as sending a formal written notice), you risk eviction for non-payment.
  • Security Deposit Protection: Take photos of the unit's condition upon moving in and moving out. This is your best defense against unfair deductions from your security deposit.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws can change and may vary by parish. Consult a qualified attorney or local legal aid organization for specific legal issues.