Can a Louisiana Landlord Raise Rent During a Lease?

Renters in Louisiana often wonder about their rights when it comes to rent increases. If you're in a fixed-term lease, sudden rent hikes can be stressful and confusing. Understanding Louisiana's laws on mid-lease rent increases can help you protect your housing and respond confidently to any changes.

Understanding Rent Increases During a Lease in Louisiana

Louisiana law treats fixed-term leases (for example, a 12-month lease) differently from month-to-month arrangements. Here's what you need to know:

• Fixed-term Leases: Once you and your landlord sign a lease for a specific period, the rent amount is legally binding for the duration of that lease.
• Month-to-Month Leases: If you're renting month-to-month, your landlord can increase the rent, but must give at least 10 days' written notice before the next rental period begins. Read more about notice requirements in Louisiana Civil Code Article 2728.

If you're in the middle of a fixed-term lease in Louisiana, your landlord cannot legally raise your rent until your lease ends, unless your lease specifically allows for a mid-lease rent increase. Most standard leases do not include this clause. Always review your signed lease agreement for special provisions.

Where to Find the Law

The rules for rent increases and landlord-tenant relationships in Louisiana come from the Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668-2733.

Exceptions and Special Situations

• If you agree in writing to a rent increase during your lease, it may become legally binding.
• If your lease has a clause allowing for increases (for example, due to increased property taxes or utilities), your landlord may be able to raise your rent but must follow the terms stated in your lease.
• Government-subsidized or public housing leases may have different rules; always check with your housing authority or program administrator.

Remember, verbal agreements can be risky; always get any rent changes in writing.

How to Respond If Your Landlord Tries to Raise Rent

If you receive a notice about a rent increase before your lease ends:

• Review your lease to ensure it does not permit mid-lease increases.
• Let your landlord know, in writing, that such an increase is not allowed under Louisiana law if your lease does not permit it.
• Contact Louisiana’s Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Section if you feel your rights are being violated.

Official Forms and Action Steps

• Notice of Rent Increase (no official state form number): If you have a month-to-month lease, your landlord must provide written notice at least 10 days before the increase. There is no standardized state form, but written notice is required. Example: If your rent is due on the 1st of the month, your landlord must give you written notice by the 21st of the previous month. See more at Louisiana District Court forms.

If you need to file a complaint or seek an interpretation, you can contact the Louisiana State Courts or the Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Protection. There is no specific tenant-landlord tribunal; most disputes go through state or parish civil courts.

FAQ: Common Questions About Rent Increases in Louisiana

1. Can my landlord raise the rent before my lease ends?
   Generally, no. Unless your lease specifically states otherwise or you agree in writing, rent cannot be raised mid-lease in Louisiana.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give before raising rent?
   If you rent month-to-month, at least 10 days' written notice is required. Fixed-term leases usually cannot be changed until they expire.
3. What should I do if my landlord tries to increase the rent illegally?
   Refer your landlord to your lease and Louisiana Civil Code. If the issue continues, document everything and contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection office.
4. Does Louisiana have rent control laws?
   No, Louisiana does not have statewide rent control, but mid-lease increases are restricted for fixed-term leases.
5. Where can I get more help as a renter in Louisiana?
   Contact legal aid services, the Attorney General, or your local parish civil court for support.

Key Takeaways: Louisiana Rent Increase Rules

• Landlords cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease allows it or you agree in writing.
• Month-to-month leases require at least 10 days' written notice for any rent hike.
• If in doubt, always consult your lease agreement and contact reputable state agencies for assistance.

Keep a copy of your lease and all communications for your records. Quick action and reliable information help protect your rights as a renter in Louisiana.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Section — file rental complaints and get guidance.
• Louisiana State Courts — find your local court handling landlord-tenant disputes.
• Louisiana Civil Code on Leases (Articles 2668-2733) — view the actual legal provisions.
• Louisiana Housing Corporation — housing assistance and guidance for renters.
• Louisiana Law Help — free legal resources and aid for renters.

---

1. Louisiana Civil Code on Leases, Articles 2668-2733: Official Legislation
2. Notice period for termination or change of terms, Article 2728: Official Text
3. Louisiana Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection: File a Complaint
4. Louisiana State Courts: Find Court Information
5. Louisiana Housing Corporation: Rental Assistance & Housing Programs

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations