Louisiana COVID-19 Eviction Protections: What Renters Need to Know

If you're a renter in Louisiana facing eviction or worried about your housing situation due to hardships from the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding your rights and protections is crucial. While most statewide emergency eviction bans have expired, some COVID-19-related renter protections and federal assistance programs continue to provide help and guidance for Louisiana residents. Below, you'll find clear, updated information on these protections, official state resources, and what steps you can take if you are at risk of eviction.

COVID-19 Eviction Protections in Louisiana: Are Any Still in Effect?

Louisiana's statewide emergency eviction moratorium ended in June 2020. However, some protections remain available through federal programs and hardship accommodations. Here’s what renters in Louisiana need to know now:

• There is no longer a blanket eviction moratorium in place. Landlords may begin eviction proceedings for nonpayment or lease violations under Louisiana law.
• Renters can still access Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) if they were affected by COVID-19-related job loss or income reduction. Funding may be limited and subject to eligibility.
• Eviction cases must still follow legal procedures outlined by the Louisiana Supreme Court and local courts. Landlords cannot remove tenants or change locks without a court order.

Most pandemic-specific protections have expired, but renters have ongoing rights under Louisiana landlord-tenant law.

What to Expect During an Eviction in Louisiana

If you’re facing eviction, your landlord must follow the legal process:

• Give you proper written notice to vacate (3–5 days for nonpayment, depending on lease terms).
• File an eviction action (“Rule for Possession”) in the appropriate Louisiana court.
• You’ll receive a court date where you can present your side. Bring any documents showing COVID-19 hardship or requests for rental assistance.
• A judge will decide your case. If ruled in favor of the landlord, you may have 24 hours to leave after the order is issued.

Important: Landlords cannot physically remove you or your belongings without a court order and involvement by the proper authorities.

Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program

The Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program is designed to help residents who cannot pay rent and utilities due to the pandemic. Although much ERA funding has been distributed, check for remaining funds or local parish programs that may continue to provide rent assistance.

• How to Apply: Contact your local housing authority or the Louisiana Housing Corporation for application and eligibility details.
• You may need proof of COVID-19 hardship, such as job loss notices, medical bills, or pay stubs.

Official Forms Renters Should Know

• Answer to Rule for Possession
  - Use: To formally respond if you're served with an eviction notice and court date.
  - Example: If you receive a "Rule for Possession" from your landlord, fill out the "Answer to Rule for Possession" form and submit it to the court by the deadline.
  - Find forms through your local parish court or the Louisiana Supreme Court clerk.
• Application for Emergency Rental Assistance
  - Use: To apply for rental assistance if struggling to pay rent due to COVID-19 impacts.
  - Example: File this form with the Louisiana Housing Corporation to seek help with overdue rent.

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Louisiana?

If you have a dispute about your rental rights or need to respond to an eviction, the proper authority is your local parish court under the direction of the Louisiana Supreme Court. Parish (county) courthouses hear most eviction proceedings.

Relevant Legislation

Louisiana rental housing is governed by the Louisiana Civil Code – Articles 2668–2729 (Lease of Things / Landlord and Tenant). These articles outline your rights and obligations, notice rules, and the process for eviction. Always consult the most recent version as laws may update.

FAQs: Louisiana COVID-19 Eviction Protections & Rental Rights

1. Are there any COVID-19 eviction bans still active in Louisiana?
   No, Louisiana’s statewide COVID-19 eviction moratorium has ended. However, some federal and local rental assistance options may still be available to qualified renters.
2. Can my landlord evict me if I couldn’t pay rent during COVID-19?
   Landlords can file for eviction due to nonpayment, but you may be able to show proof of COVID-19 hardship or apply for emergency rental assistance to prevent or delay eviction.
3. What should I do if I receive a Rule for Possession?
   Fill out an "Answer to Rule for Possession" and submit it to the court by your required deadline. If possible, seek help from legal aid or your local housing authority.
4. Are there forms I should use to respond to an eviction notice?
   Yes, use the "Answer to Rule for Possession" from your parish court. Forms and instructions are available through your parish courthouse or on the Louisiana Supreme Court website.
5. Where can I find the laws about renter rights in Louisiana?
   Read the Louisiana Civil Code – Landlord and Tenant provisions for official rules.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• No statewide COVID-19 eviction ban remains in effect, but rental assistance and legal processes continue to offer some protections.
• Respond promptly to any eviction notice, using official court forms and seeking guidance from free legal resources if needed.
• Know your rights under the Louisiana Civil Code and always get legal advice if you are unsure or feel rushed into an agreement.

By staying informed and making use of available support, Louisiana renters can better navigate post-pandemic housing challenges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Housing Corporation – Emergency Rental Assistance
• Find your local Parish Court (for eviction and tenancy cases)
• Louisiana Supreme Court (Legal forms, rules, and case search)
• Louisiana Law Help (Free legal information and help for renters)
• Louisiana Civil Code – Tenant Provisions

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1. Louisiana Civil Code – Lease of Things (Articles 2668–2729): Official link
2. Louisiana Supreme Court – Parish Courts Information: Official link
3. Louisiana Housing Corporation – Emergency Rental Assistance: Official link

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