LGBTQ+ Renter Protections Against Housing Discrimination in Louisiana

Discrimination can make renting a home difficult, especially for LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and others) individuals. If you rent in Louisiana, it’s important to understand your rights and what legal protections exist under both state and federal law.

Understanding LGBTQ+ Housing Rights for Renters in Louisiana

Many renters are unsure if it’s legal for a landlord to deny them a rental, raise the rent, or threaten eviction simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The good news is that, while Louisiana state law does not specifically prohibit discrimination based on LGBTQ+ status, federal law offers important protections for renters throughout the state.

Federal Fair Housing Protections Apply in Louisiana

Under the Fair Housing Act, it is illegal for housing providers (such as landlords, property managers, or real estate agents) to discriminate against renters based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability[1]. In 2021, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) clarified that "sex" protections include sexual orientation and gender identity under President Biden’s Executive Order 13988.

• Landlords in Louisiana cannot legally refuse to rent to you because you are LGBTQ+ or treat you differently because of your identity.
• Common forms of discrimination include: denying an application, setting different terms, harassing comments, or failing to make repairs only for LGBTQ+ tenants.

Louisiana State Housing Protections

Louisiana law itself does not list sexual orientation or gender identity as protected categories for housing discrimination. However, many larger cities and federal programs may provide stronger local or program-specific protections.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

If you believe you’ve faced LGBTQ+ discrimination, you may file a complaint with:

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The main federal agency for enforcing fair housing rights.
• Louisiana Housing Corporation Fair Housing Page – Offers state-specific guidance and resources.

Official Government Forms and How to Use Them

• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint: You can file your complaint online using the HUD housing discrimination form.
  • When to use: If you have been denied housing, treated unfairly, or harassed due to your LGBTQ+ status.
  • Example: If a landlord rejects your rental application after learning you are in a same-sex relationship, file this form promptly.

Tip: Keep records and copies of all discriminatory communications or lease agreements. Documentation can help your case.

Tribunal Handling Housing Disputes in Louisiana

While Louisiana does not have a state-specific residential tenancy tribunal, housing disputes and discrimination complaints for renters are mainly handled at the federal level by HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO), which will investigate your complaint.

Relevant Legislation Covering Your Rights

• 24 CFR Part 100 – Regulations Implementing the Fair Housing Act
• Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968)

There is no Louisiana-specific tenant rights code covering sexual orientation or gender identity[2].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a landlord in Louisiana evict me because I am LGBTQ+?
   No. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot lawfully evict or otherwise discriminate against a renter because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
2. What should I do if I think I was denied housing due to being LGBTQ+?
   Document what happened, save any written communication, and file a complaint with HUD using their official online complaint form.
3. Does Louisiana have its own law to protect LGBTQ+ renters?
   No, Louisiana law does not specifically list sexual orientation or gender identity in its state housing discrimination statutes, but federal protections still fully apply.
4. Is there a time limit for filing a discrimination complaint?
   Yes. You generally have one year from the date of the alleged discrimination to file a complaint with HUD.
5. Who investigates my complaint if I file one?
   HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity reviews, investigates, and may resolve your complaint, often at no cost to you.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Louisiana LGBTQ+ Renters

• Federal law protects Louisiana renters from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity—even if state law is silent.
• If you face discrimination, HUD is the main agency to contact. Use the official online complaint process.
• Keep detailed records of your rental communications and all incidents.

Knowing your rights and where to turn can help ensure safe, fair housing experiences for all renters in Louisiana.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: Main tribunal for investigating discrimination and handling complaints statewide.
• Louisiana Housing Corporation: Provides information and directs renters to relevant services.
• U.S. Department of Justice – Civil Rights Division: Oversees enforcement of the Fair Housing Act.
• File a Complaint Online (HUD Form 903)

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1. HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Fair Housing Act
2. Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 51, § 2601 et seq. (state fair housing law)

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