What happens if my landlord does not provide the required lead paint disclosure?

If your rental was built before 1978 and the landlord fails to provide the disclosure, they may face federal penalties and you may have grounds to cancel your lease or seek damages.

Is a mold disclosure always required in Louisiana?

No. Louisiana does not specifically require a mold disclosure, but landlords should notify tenants of known mold issues for health and legal protection.

How do I know who my legal landlord is if my lease is unclear?

Your lease must include the name and address of your landlord or property manager. If you are unsure, request the information in writing for clarity.

Are there standard Louisiana lease forms for all disclosures?

Louisiana does not have a single standard lease form, but required information must still be present in your signed lease. The lead paint disclosure is the only standalone required form in most cases.

Can I request missing disclosures after I already moved in?

Yes, you have the right to ask for any required disclosures even after moving in. Landlords are expected to comply promptly with such requests.

Louisiana Lease Disclosures Every Renter Should Know

Lease Agreements & Renewals Louisiana published: June 21, 2025

Renting your home in Louisiana comes with important rights — and your landlord has specific legal duties before and during your lease. One of the most important duties is providing you with required disclosures within your residential lease agreement. Knowing what landlords must reveal can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and protect your rights as a renter in Louisiana.

What Legally Must Be Disclosed in Louisiana Leases?

Louisiana law requires certain information to be provided to renters, both to ensure renter safety and to clarify the terms of your tenancy. Most disclosures are provided at the start of the lease, but some may be given later or when conditions change.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Federal Law): For buildings built before 1978, landlords must provide an EPA-approved "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" pamphlet and disclose any known lead paint hazards.
Names and Addresses: The full name and address of the owner or management company must be provided in the lease, so you know who to contact for repairs or emergencies.
Mold Information (Recommended): While Louisiana does not have a state law requiring specific mold disclosures, landlords who know of any mold issues are strongly encouraged to disclose them to avoid liability and protect tenant health.
Security Deposit Terms: The agreement must state how and when your security deposit will be returned, in line with Louisiana’s security deposit rules.
Any Special Rules or Restrictions: For example, rules about pets, smoking, or subletting should be outlined in the lease agreement.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form)

For any rental in a building constructed before 1978, landlords must give tenants this federally-mandated disclosure:

Form Name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (no official state number, but required nationwide)
When and How Used: Provided before signing the lease. For example, if you are renting a charming restored home from the 1940s, your landlord should give you this form and a lead hazard pamphlet to read before you decide to move in.
Official Source: EPA Resource & Requirements

Owner/Manager Information Disclosure

Form Name: Not a standalone form; typically included as a section in the lease agreement itself.
When and How Used: This must be spelled out in your signed lease, letting you know whom to contact for service or legal notice. For example, if you need an emergency repair, this information tells you who is legally responsible for addressing it.

Security Deposit Disclosure (Louisiana Law)

Form Name: No stand-alone official form. Security deposit refund procedures and timeframes must be clearly stated in the lease agreement under Louisiana law.
When and How Used: This should be clear when you sign your lease. For instance, your lease should tell you if deductions can be made and when you can expect your refund after move-out.
Reference: Louisiana Civil Code § 3251 – Security Deposits

While the list above covers key required disclosures, keep in mind that your lease could include additional terms. It’s always a good idea to read your lease thoroughly and ask questions about anything you don’t understand before signing.

Tip: Always request a copy of any disclosure forms or information provided at lease signing for your records.

Louisiana’s Residential Rental Law and Tenant Protections

Most rental rules in Louisiana are covered under Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729 (Residential Leases). This covers deposit rules, landlord obligations, and steps for both starting and ending a tenancy.

Note: While Louisiana does not have a state-level tenant board, local city courts (such as parish justice courts) handle disputes concerning rental agreements and evictions. To find your local tribunal, visit the Louisiana Supreme Court – District & Parish Court Listings.

FAQ for Louisiana Renters: Required Lease Disclosures

What happens if my landlord does not provide the required lead paint disclosure?
If your rental was built before 1978 and the landlord fails to provide the disclosure, they may face federal penalties and you may have grounds to cancel your lease or seek damages.
Is a mold disclosure always required in Louisiana?
No. Louisiana does not specifically require a mold disclosure, but landlords should notify tenants of known mold issues for health and legal protection.
How do I know who my legal landlord is if my lease is unclear?
Your lease must include the name and address of your landlord or property manager. If you are unsure, request the information in writing for clarity.
Are there standard Louisiana lease forms for all disclosures?
Louisiana does not have a single standard lease form, but required information must still be present in your signed lease. The lead paint disclosure is the only standalone required form in most cases.
Can I request missing disclosures after I already moved in?
Yes, you have the right to ask for any required disclosures even after moving in. Landlords are expected to comply promptly with such requests.

Conclusion: What Should Renters Remember?

In Louisiana, your lease must include federally-required disclosures and contact information for your landlord.
Always keep copies of disclosures and your lease agreement.
For more help, reach out to your local court or legal aid service if your rights are not being respected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Assistance – submit complaints about landlord disputes or missing disclosures.
Louisiana Courts Directory – find your parish or city court to resolve disputes.
HUD Louisiana Tenant Rights – find guides and federal information for Louisiana renters.
LawHelp Louisiana – locate free or sliding-scale legal aid for renters.

Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729 – Residential Leases: Read the law
EPA Lead-based Paint Disclosure Requirements: EPA official info
Louisiana Attorney General Tenant Guidance: Official AG Consumer Service
HUD: Louisiana Tenant Rights Resource: HUD Louisiana Tenant Rights