Louisiana Co-Living Rules: What Renters Need to Know

More renters in Louisiana are choosing co-living arrangements—such as sharing apartments, houses, or modern co-living spaces with roommates. While this option offers flexibility and can lower monthly expenses, it’s important to know your rights under Louisiana law, especially if you plan to share a home or sublet your space. This guide covers key regulations, necessary forms, and practical tips for renters navigating shared housing in Louisiana.

Understanding Co-Living and Shared Housing in Louisiana

Co-living spaces refer to housing where unrelated adults share a rental property, each with their own lease or a common lease. Shared housing can include apartments, single-family homes, or modern co-living developments. Louisiana doesn’t have specific statutes only for co-living; instead, general landlord-tenant laws apply. It’s important for all renters to understand these fundamentals before entering a roommate or co-living arrangement.^[1]

Roommate and Subletting Basics

• Roommate Agreements: While not required by Louisiana law, written roommate agreements can help prevent disputes. These outline rent responsibilities, cleaning duties, guest policies, and more.
• Adding Roommates: Always review your lease agreement first. Most leases require the landlord’s written approval before a new resident moves in—even with a shared arrangement.
• Subletting: Louisiana law generally permits subletting unless your lease specifically prohibits it. Always notify your landlord and get approval in writing before subletting your room or unit.

Key Louisiana Laws and Protections

For co-living and shared housing, the core rules come from the Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This legislation dictates your rights and obligations, covering rent, repairs, entry, deposits, and eviction procedures.

• The Act applies to all rental units except hotels, motels, and some owner-occupied homes.
• All residents on the lease are jointly responsible for rent and damages unless otherwise stated.
• Landlords must follow legal eviction procedures for all tenants—there’s no “self-help” eviction allowed.

Official Forms for Louisiana Renters

While Louisiana does not issue state-mandated roommate or co-living forms, there are key notices and resources you may need during your rental journey:

• Notice to Vacate: Used when ending a month-to-month lease or asking a roommate to leave (if allowed by your lease).
  • Sample template: Notice to Vacate (Eviction Notice) Sample Form by Louisiana State Courts
  • When and how: Issue this notice in writing; in month-to-month arrangements, at least five days’ notice is required unless otherwise specified in your lease. Deliver it to your landlord or the roommate, keeping a copy for your records.
• Petition for Eviction (Form 101): If you need to formally evict a tenant or sub-tenant (by landlord only).
  • Official form and info: Louisiana State Court Petition for Eviction
  • When and how: Landlords may file this in the appropriate Parish Court after issuing a valid Notice to Vacate.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether you can add a roommate or sublet, check your lease and contact your landlord in writing before making changes.

Tribunal for Rental Disputes in Louisiana

Most rental disagreements—including those involving roommates, evictions, or lease violations—are handled in local Parish Courts or City Courts in Louisiana. These courts process landlord-tenant cases and eviction filings. Always check which court covers your rental address before filing a claim.

Best Practices for Co-Living Arrangements

• Communicate openly with all housemates about expectations and responsibilities.
• Use written agreements—even informal ones—to outline chores, guest policies, payment responsibilities, and move-out procedures.
• Provide each roommate with a written notice before ending the living arrangement, in line with local court sample forms and timelines.
• Retain copies of all notices, written agreements, and payments for your records.

FAQ: Shared Housing and Roommate Rules in Louisiana

1. Can I add a roommate if my lease doesn’t mention co-living or roommates?
   Generally yes, unless your lease says otherwise. However, you should inform your landlord and obtain written approval, as many leases prohibit subletting or require all occupants to be named in the lease.
2. Is subletting my room legal in Louisiana?
   Louisiana law does not automatically prohibit subletting, but your lease might. Always review your lease and get your landlord’s written approval before subletting.
3. How do I formally ask a roommate to leave?
   For informal roommate arrangements, provide a written Notice to Vacate with at least five days’ notice for month-to-month situations, using the state sample form for guidance. For formal lease arrangements, you may need landlord involvement.
4. What happens if a roommate stops paying their share of the rent?
   Unless your lease specifies otherwise, all tenants are jointly responsible for the full rent. This means remaining renters may be liable for any unpaid amounts.
5. Which court handles roommate or co-living disputes in Louisiana?
   Rental matters are addressed by your local Parish Court or City Court. Find your court district using the Louisiana Courts Map.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Co-Living Renters

• Check your lease before adding roommates or subletting; written landlord approval is best.
• Use sample notices and keep records of all communications and payments.
• For disputes, your local Parish or City Court is the official authority on rental matters.

Understanding and following Louisiana’s basic rental laws can help keep co-living experiences smooth and secure for everyone involved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Parish and City Courts Directory – Find your local court for filing notices or disputes.
• Louisiana Housing Corporation: Tenant Rights and Resources – Official state agency with guides and contacts for renters.
• Louisiana Supreme Court – Legal forms library and help for renters and landlords.
• Louisiana State Bar Association: Pro Bono Resources – Free or low-cost legal help for qualifying renters.

---

1. Louisiana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (La. R.S. 9:3251–3261)
2. Sample Notice to Vacate and Eviction (Louisiana State Court)
3. Louisiana Parish and City Courts Official Directory
4. Louisiana Housing Corporation – Tenant Rights

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