Unlike many states, Louisiana does not follow the Uniform Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, which makes understanding your rights and duties even more crucial. From maintaining habitable housing to ensuring tenant privacy, Louisiana landlord responsibilities are defined by specific state laws. 

In this blogpost, we’ll explore everything landlords and tenants need to know to stay compliant and foster a successful rental relationship.

Overview of Louisiana Landlord-Tenant Law

Louisiana’s landlord-tenant laws are different from those of many other states due to the absence of the Uniform Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (URLTA). Instead, Louisiana relies on its own civil code to regulate rental agreements. This approach allows unique flexibility in leasing arrangements, enabling landlords and tenants to negotiate terms that might not be permissible in other states.

For example, landlords in Louisiana may rent out properties with known substandard conditions if these issues are disclosed and agreed upon in writing by the tenant.

(Sources: DoorLoop, American Apartment Owners Association)

Landlord’s Duty to Provide Safe Housing

Under Louisiana law, landlords are obligated to ensure that rental properties are habitable and safe for their intended use. The landlord’s responsibilities include:

  • Delivering the property in livable condition: The rental must be safe and suitable for occupancy at the lease’s start.
  • Making necessary repairs: Landlords must address critical maintenance issues promptly, such as fixing heating systems, plumbing, or structural damages that pose health risks.
  • Maintaining tenant’s peaceful enjoyment: Landlords cannot intrude without notice or disrupt a tenant’s use of the property without valid cause. (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. CC 2691)

However, Louisiana law allows exceptions. If tenants agree in writing to lease a property with known deficiencies like a weak floor…the landlord is not liable for injuries caused by the disclosed issue.

Security Deposits:

  • Landlords must return the security deposit within one month of the lease’s termination.
  • Any deductions for damages or unpaid rent must be itemized and documented.

(Sources: Louisiana Law Help, Loyola University Landlord-Tenant Guide)

Tenant Rights for Maintenance Issues

Louisiana tenants are entitled to specific rights to ensure safe and livable conditions:

  1. Tenants can request repairs in writing for urgent issues, such as a lack of heat or plumbing failures. If landlords fail to address these, tenants may:
    • Apply the "repair and deduct" rule, fixing the problem themselves and deducting the cost from rent (with proper documentation).
    • Seek legal remedies if the property becomes uninhabitable. (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. CC 2683)
  2. Tenants have the right to use the property without harassment or unreasonable landlord interference.
  3. Landlords cannot evict or increase rent in retaliation for tenants filing formal complaints about the property.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants must:

  • Pay rent on time and in full according to the lease.
  • Keep the property in good condition, aside from normal wear and tear.
  • Avoid making unauthorized alterations.
  • Notify landlords promptly of damages or repairs needed. 

(Sources: American Apartment Owners Association)

Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

For Landlords

  • Failure to Maintain Habitability: Landlords who fail to meet basic habitability standards may face lawsuits or loss of rental income. In cases of severe neglect, tenants may claim constructive eviction and terminate the lease without penalty.
  • Unlawful Entry or Harassment: Tenants can sue landlords for damages if they violate privacy or fail to follow proper eviction procedures.
  • Security Deposit Violations: Landlords must return deposits within one month or face legal claims for the full amount, plus additional penalties.

For Tenants

  • Lease Violations: Failure to adhere to lease terms, such as late rent payments or property damage, may result in eviction proceedings.
  • Unauthorized Repairs or Alterations: Tenants may forfeit their security deposit or face legal action for unauthorized changes.

American Apartment Owners Association

Summary

Louisiana’s landlord-tenant laws provide a framework for maintaining fairness and flexibility in rental agreements. Key highlights include:

  • Landlords must ensure habitability but can rent properties with disclosed deficiencies if agreed upon.
  • Tenants have rights to safe housing and repair remedies but must meet their obligations under the lease.
  • Security deposits must be managed responsibly, with clear documentation for deductions.

Both landlords and tenants should familiarize themselves with Louisiana’s unique legal framework to avoid disputes and ensure a positive rental experience.