Louisiana Lease Addendums: What Every Renter Should Know

Before you sign or renew a rental lease in Louisiana, it’s important to understand all the terms—especially those found in lease addendums. Lease addendums are extra agreements attached to your main lease, changing or adding rules about your tenancy. Some addendums are routine, but others can impact your rights or responsibilities in major ways. Let’s explore which addendums are common in Louisiana, what renters should look out for, and how to respond if you have concerns.

Understanding Lease Addendums in Louisiana

A lease addendum is a legal document added to your lease agreement, modifying or clarifying existing terms or adding new rules. In Louisiana, addendums must not violate state law or your rights under the Louisiana Civil Code - Lease of Things (§2668-§2729).¹

Common Lease Addendums to Watch For

• Late Fee Addendum: Explains if, when, and how much the landlord can charge for late rent payments.
• Pet Addendum: Details rules, deposits, or restrictions about having pets. This can also cover service animal accommodation, which landlords must allow by law.
• Maintenance or Repairs Addendum: May assign the cost or responsibility for certain repairs (like air conditioning or pest control) to the tenant.
• Utilities Addendum: Clarifies which utilities you pay and how costs are divided if shared.
• Entry or Inspection Addendum: States when and how landlords may enter your unit. Louisiana law generally requires "reasonable notice."
• Rules/Regulations Addendum: Includes details on quiet hours, parking, or amenities not listed in the main lease.
• Renewal or Termination Addendum: Sets special terms for ending or renewing your lease, including notice periods.
• Mold, Lead-Based Paint, or Hazards Disclosure: Required for rentals built before 1978 or when known hazards exist.

It's vital to read every addendum before signing anything. If you’re unsure, ask the landlord to clarify or consult a tenant advocacy resource.

State Laws and Your Rights

In Louisiana, your rights as a renter come from both your lease and the state's civil code. For any lease addendum to be valid, it must comply with state laws, including:

• Louisiana Civil Code – Lease of Things (§2668-§2729): The central law governing leases and landlord-tenant obligations.¹
• Federal requirements, such as the federal lead-based paint disclosure for buildings built before 1978.²

Important Official Forms for Louisiana Renters

• City of New Orleans Residential Lease Addendum
  • Use: Required in New Orleans for certain rental assistance programs or subsidized units.
  • Renter Example: If you participate in the Housing Choice Voucher Program, you’ll receive this addendum outlining additional obligations and protections.
  • Download from City of New Orleans
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form)
  • Use: Required for all leases of housing built before 1978.
  • Renter Example: If your rental is older than 1978, your landlord must provide this form and a federal pamphlet before you sign the lease, explaining any known lead hazards.
  • Download from EPA

Note: While Louisiana does not require a standard state lease form, always get copies of any addendums and verify signatures are included.

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Louisiana?

Disputes about lease terms, addendums, or landlord conduct are usually handled by local Parish Civil Courts (also called Justice of the Peace or City Courts, depending on your parish). There is no dedicated state tribunal for residential tenancy, but you can contact your local courthouse for specifics:

• Louisiana State Judiciary – Find Your Parish Court

If you believe an addendum is illegal or unfair, you may seek advice from a legal services office or file an action in your local civil court.

What to Do If You Have Concerns About Lease Addendums

• Read everything carefully before signing. Don’t rush—request time to review addendums independently if needed.
• Ask questions about unclear language or unusual requirements.
• Retain copies of all addendums and correspondence with your landlord for your records.
• Request removal or changes to addendums you find unfair. Most landlords are willing to discuss reasonable edits.
• If you suspect an addendum violates your rights, seek help from a legal aid office, or consider contacting your local Parish Civil Court.

Understanding your lease terms—and especially any attached addendums—can make the difference between a smooth rental experience and future disputes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lease Addendums in Louisiana

1. Can a landlord add new rules after I sign the lease?
   Not without your agreement. Any new terms—such as a new addendum—must be accepted and signed by both you and your landlord to be enforceable.
2. What should I do if I think an addendum is illegal?
   Politely ask your landlord to clarify or remove it. If you still have concerns, contact a local legal aid service or your parish civil court for guidance.
3. Are there any addendums my landlord must legally provide?
   Yes. If the rental was built before 1978, the landlord must provide a federal lead paint disclosure addendum. For subsidized housing, program-specific addendums may be required.
4. Can a lease addendum make me pay for all repairs?
   Some repair costs may be assigned to you in the lease, but major repairs affecting habitability usually remain the landlord’s responsibility under Louisiana law.

Key Takeaways for Louisiana Renters

• Read all lease addendums closely before signing or renewing.
• Know that Louisiana law protects you from unfair or illegal lease terms.
• If you have concerns, reach out to parish courts or tenant advocacy resources for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana State Judiciary – Find Your Parish Court: To resolve disputes about lease terms or file tenant complaints.
• Louisiana Civil Justice Center: Free legal aid for renters statewide.
• Louisiana Department of Health – Lead Paint Information: For concerns about lead disclosures.
• HUD Louisiana Renting Guide: Federal tenant rights and program addendums.

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1. Louisiana Civil Code - Lease of Things (§2668-§2729)
2. EPA – The Lead Disclosure Rule

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