Landlord Showing Rules When Moving Out in Louisiana

As a renter preparing to move out in Louisiana, you may wonder if your landlord can show your apartment while you’re still packing. Understanding your rights and your landlord’s legal responsibilities is key to a smooth transition. This guide explains what state law says about apartment showings, required notices, and steps you can take if your privacy is disrupted.

Landlord Entry Rights in Louisiana: What the Law Says

Louisiana law recognizes the tenant’s right to privacy, but also allows landlords reasonable access for legitimate reasons, including showing the apartment to prospective tenants or buyers. These rules are primarily governed under the Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729 on Lease of Things.^[1]

When Can a Landlord Show the Apartment?

• Notice Requirement: Louisiana law does not specify a minimum notice period for landlord entry in all situations. However, lease agreements often require landlords to give at least 24-hours’ notice before entering for non-emergency reasons such as showings.
• Reasonable Times: Showings must occur at reasonable times—typically during daytime hours unless you agree otherwise.
• Occupied Units: Yes, landlords can show the unit while you are still residing and packing, provided they comply with your lease terms and provide reasonable notice.
• Emergencies: No notice is required if entry is needed to address emergencies.

Check your rental or lease agreement for any extra requirements that may apply—these can sometimes offer greater protections than state law.

Your Privacy Rights and How to Respond

If your landlord wants to show the apartment, your rights include:

• Advance notice, if required by your lease
• Entry during reasonable hours
• Accompaniment: The landlord should not send prospective tenants or buyers alone

If you believe your landlord is entering without proper notice or at unreasonable times, you can address the situation directly, cite your lease, or seek legal help.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

There is no specific state-issued form for landlord entry or objection in Louisiana. However, some actions you might need to take involve:

• Written Notice to Landlord: If you feel your privacy is being violated, you can use a standard Notice to Landlord of Breach of Lease (no form number). State your concerns, dates, and request compliance with the lease agreement. You can download a sample notice template from the Louisiana State Bar Association.
• Filing a Complaint: If matters escalate, you may file a complaint with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section by downloading their Consumer Dispute Form.
• Small Claims Court: For unresolved disputes, renters can apply to parish-level small claims courts in Louisiana. Each parish has its own application; check your local district or city court website.

Practical example: If your landlord repeatedly enters your unit without notice or at unreasonable hours, document each occurrence, discuss with your landlord in writing, and if necessary, complete the Complaint Form linked above to file with the Attorney General.

Which Board Handles Disputes?

In Louisiana, there is no single state tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes. Issues are generally handled by your local parish civil or city court. For guidance, visit the Louisiana Law Help: Landlord-Tenant Disputes page.

Summary: What to Expect with Apartment Showings

To summarize:

• Landlords can show apartments during your move-out, but must follow lease terms and provide any required notice.
• Your privacy rights are protected by both state law and your lease.
• No specific state entry form, but complaints can be made using the official Consumer Dispute Form.

FAQ: Apartment Showings During Move-Out in Louisiana

1. Does my landlord need to give notice before showing my apartment?
   Usually yes—while Louisiana law does not set a minimum, most leases require 24-hours’ notice for non-emergency entry.
2. Can I refuse showings if I am busy packing?
   No, not without cause. You can request reasonable scheduling accommodations, but cannot refuse all access if lease terms allow showings and proper notice is given.
3. What should I do if the landlord enters without notice?
   Document each incident, send a written objection citing your lease, and consider filing a complaint with the Louisiana Attorney General if the issue continues.
4. Where do I file a complaint about repeated privacy violations?
   Start with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section or your local parish civil or city court.
5. Are there official forms for renters to object to illegal entry?
   Louisiana does not have a specific form, but you may use a written notice or the Consumer Dispute Form to file a complaint.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana State Bar Association – Lawyers for Renters
• Louisiana Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Rights
• Find Your Local Parish Civil or City Court
• Louisiana Law Help: Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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1. Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729 (Lease of Things)
2. Louisiana State Bar Association – Renters Resources
3. Louisiana Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Rights
4. Local Louisiana Civil & City Courts

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