How to File a Complaint Against a Landlord in Louisiana

As a renter in Louisiana, you have specific rights and protections under state law. If you believe your landlord is not fulfilling their legal obligations—such as failing to make necessary repairs, violating your lease terms, or engaging in unlawful eviction or discrimination—there are clear steps you can take. This guide explains your options and how to file a complaint against your landlord in Louisiana, keeping the process simple and supportive.

Understanding Your Rights as a Louisiana Renter

Louisiana's Civil Code, Title IX – Lease outlines the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. Some key protections include:

• The right to a safe and habitable dwelling
• Timely repairs for essential services (heat, water, electricity)
• Proper notice before eviction actions
• Freedom from discrimination under state and federal law

If you have raised concerns and your landlord hasn’t resolved the problem, you may need to take official action.

Ways to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Louisiana

Depending on your issue—such as health and safety violations, discrimination, or illegal eviction—different agencies may be involved. Here’s where to start:

1. Document the Problem

• Write down dates and details of the issue and your communications
• Take photos or videos if the problem involves safety or repairs
• Keep copies of all written requests to your landlord

2. Contact Local Authorities for Health & Safety Issues

• If you have issues like mold, lack of heat, or broken plumbing, contact your local parish health department. They can inspect and may order your landlord to make repairs.
• For building code violations, reach out to the city or parish code enforcement office where you live.

3. File a Discrimination Complaint (Fair Housing)

• If you believe your landlord is discriminating because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or family status, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center.

4. Take Legal Action or Make a Formal Complaint

• For unresolved disputes, you can file a claim in Louisiana Justice of the Peace Courts (small claims courts), especially for deposit issues or damages valued at $5,000 or less. See Louisiana Supreme Court: Find My Court.
• For larger disputes, seek legal advice or contact your local legal aid office.

Official Forms for Louisiana Renters

Louisiana does not have a single statewide landlord complaint form, but the following forms and actions may apply, depending on your issue:

• Notice to Landlord to Repair or Remedy (Sample Letter)
  This isn’t a state-issued form, but many parishes recommend tenants give written notice before further action. Clearly detail the needed repair, provide a deadline, and include your contact details. Example: "Leaky roof in bedroom needs immediate repair by [date]. Signed, [Your Name]." Templates can be found via Louisiana Law Help: Sample Request for Repairs.
• Fair Housing Complaint Forms
  If you suspect discrimination, use the official HUD Form 903-1 (Housing Discrimination Complaint Form). Submit online via HUD's portal or by mail.
  When to use: Any time you believe you've been treated unfairly due to protected characteristics. For example, if your landlord refuses to rent to you because you have children.
• Small Claims Petition
  For disputes such as unreturned security deposits, file a claim in your local Justice of the Peace Court. Each court may have its own "Petition for Small Claims Court". Find your specific parish court's website via the Louisiana Supreme Court.

Which Tribunal or Board Handles Tenancy Complaints?

Louisiana does not have a single residential tenancy tribunal. Most landlord-tenant disputes are resolved in Justice of the Peace or City Courts depending on the amount in dispute and your parish. You can search for your local court.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Louisiana

• Gather documentation (photos, written requests, lease copy)
• Send written notice to your landlord requesting action, using a sample letter if needed
• If no response, contact your local code enforcement or health department for habitability issues
• File a fair housing complaint if discrimination is involved
• File in small claims court for money-related disputes (like deposits)

Following these steps gives you the best chance to resolve disputes quickly and legally.

FAQs: Louisiana Renter Complaints & Landlord Disputes

1. Can a landlord evict me without reason in Louisiana?
   In most cases, a landlord can end a month-to-month tenancy without cause but must provide proper notice. For fixed leases, eviction generally requires a specific lease violation or nonpayment. Full procedural details are set by the Louisiana Civil Code – Lease.
2. What if my landlord won't fix something that affects my health or safety?
   Report the issue in writing and give your landlord a reasonable time to fix it. If there is no response, contact your local health or housing office and document everything.
3. How do I file a complaint if I am being discriminated against?
   Use the HUD fair housing complaint system or contact the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center.
4. Where do I go if my landlord owes me money (like a security deposit)?
   You may file a claim in your local Justice of the Peace or City Court, using the court’s "Petition for Small Claims Court" form.
5. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't made?
   Louisiana law does not generally allow renters to withhold rent but you may have legal remedies in court. Seek advice before stopping payments.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• Document everything and try written communication with your landlord first
• Use local health, housing, or code enforcement offices for habitability issues
• File official complaints for discrimination or money disputes using the correct forms and courts

Taking clear, calm, and timely action increases your chances of getting results and protects your rights as a Louisiana renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Louisiana

• Louisiana Supreme Court: Find Your Parish or City Court
• Louisiana Law Help – Tenant Rights
• Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center (Discrimination Help)
• Louisiana Department of Health – Parish Offices
• HUD: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

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1. Louisiana Civil Code, Title IX – Lease
2. Louisiana Department of Health: Environmental Health Services
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Fair Housing Complaint
4. Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center
5. Louisiana: Find Your Local Parish or City Court
6. Louisiana Law Help: Sample Request for Repairs

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