Louisiana Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Apartment Renters

If you're renting an apartment in Louisiana, it's important to understand your rights regarding bedbug disclosures and prevention. Knowing what landlords are required to share, and how to act if you suspect a bedbug problem, can help you protect your health and finances.

Do Louisiana Landlords Have to Disclose Bedbugs?

As of 2024, Louisiana state law does not specifically require landlords to disclose the presence of bedbugs before you move into an apartment. While some states have specific bedbug disclosure statutes, Louisiana mainly covers the general condition and safety of rental units under the Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668-2729 (the state's main residential rental law). This means landlords are generally responsible for providing a safe and livable apartment free from pest infestations at the start of the lease.^[1]

What Landlords Must Disclose

• Any known hazards: Louisiana landlords are required to disclose issues that may make the unit unsafe or uninhabitable.
• Lead-based paint (for buildings before 1978): Federal law requires the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form to be provided if applicable.
• Bedbugs: There is no legal mandate for bedbug-specific disclosure, but severe infestations affecting habitability could fall under general warranty of habitability rules.

However, if bedbugs or another infestation make the property unfit to live in, the landlord may be legally responsible for addressing the problem in a timely manner.

What To Do If You Suspect Bedbugs

If you notice signs of bedbugs (such as bites, small reddish stains, or actual insects), act quickly:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the suspected infestation.
• Keep a copy of your communication and take photographs for documentation.
• Request prompt professional pest control treatment.
• Do not attempt large-scale DIY treatments—these can make the problem worse.

Official Forms and Practical Examples

• No official Louisiana bedbug disclosure form currently exists.
• If reporting habitability issues, you may use a general "Request for Repairs/Notice to Landlord" letter. This is not a state-mandated form but should include:
  • Date and description of issue (e.g., bedbugs found on the bedroom mattress on May 10).
  • A request for a prompt professional extermination.
  • Deadline for landlord response (generally 3-5 business days reasonable notice).
• For disputes unresolved by the landlord, renters may file a complaint or consider mediation via local parish-level courts, or seek help from the Louisiana Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program.

You can find guidance, templates, and contact information through the Louisiana Attorney General Landlord/Tenant Guide.

Your Rights Under Louisiana Law

Louisiana Civil Code Article 2691 requires landlords to keep the property suitable for its intended use throughout your lease. If pests, including bedbugs, threaten the habitability of your rental, you have the right to request repairs or pest treatment.^[1]

Read the Louisiana Civil Code landlord-tenant sections for more details about landlord and tenant duties.

The Tribunal for Disputes

For unresolved bedbug or habitability disputes, renters in Louisiana generally address claims at the local City or Parish Court (also called Justice of the Peace Court), which handles small landlord-tenant issues. The state does not have a centralized residential tenancy tribunal.

Find your local court information from the Louisiana Supreme Court list of courts.

FAQ: Bedbugs and Louisiana Rentals

1. Are landlords in Louisiana legally required to disclose previous bedbug infestations?
   No, there is currently no state law in Louisiana requiring landlords to disclose previous or current bedbug infestations before renting an apartment.
2. What should I do if I move in and find bedbugs?
   Notify your landlord in writing and request immediate pest control treatment. Keep documentation and photos as evidence.
3. Can a landlord charge me for bedbug extermination?
   This depends. If you caused the infestation, you may be liable. If the problem pre-existed your move-in, or is a building-wide issue, the landlord is typically responsible.
4. Where can I get official help with a landlord who won't address bedbugs?
   You can contact the Louisiana Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program or your City or Parish Court for dispute resolution.
5. Does Louisiana have a specific form for reporting bedbugs?
   No official state form exists specifically for bedbugs. Use written notices to your landlord or general repair request letters.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• Louisiana does not require specific bedbug disclosure before move-in.
• Landlords must provide a safe, habitable apartment free from pests.
• If you suspect bedbugs, act fast: notify your landlord in writing and document everything.

Understanding your rights can help you protect yourself and resolve issues quickly if they arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Attorney General's Landlord/Tenant Resource Page: Law summaries, complaint process, mediation support
• Local Parish and City Courts: Handles landlord-tenant disputes
• HUD Louisiana Renting Guide: Federal renting and habitability rights

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1. Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729: Landlord and Tenant Obligations
2. EPA, Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Federal Disclosure Requirements
3. Louisiana Supreme Court Court Locator: Find Your Parish or City Court

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