Louisiana Lease Renewal: What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

As a renter in Louisiana, understanding whether a landlord can refuse to renew your lease is vital for housing stability. This article explains your rights under Louisiana law, the notice rules your landlord must follow, and helpful next steps. If your lease is ending soon—or if you've received a notice about it—knowing your options empowers you to respond with confidence.

Understanding Lease Renewal in Louisiana

Louisiana laws distinguish between fixed-term leases (for example, a 12-month lease) and month-to-month (or "open-ended") leases. At the end of a lease term, renewal is not automatic unless the landlord and tenant both agree to continue, or unless the lease states otherwise.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew a Lease?

Landlords in Louisiana may legally refuse to renew a lease for almost any reason, with some important exceptions:

• The landlord cannot refuse renewal for retaliatory reasons (for example, because you asked for repairs) or for a discriminatory reason (such as race, religion, disability, etc.).
• If you’re renting under a fixed-term lease and the term ends, the landlord is not required to renew unless local ordinance or your lease gives you that protection.
• For month-to-month leases, either party can choose to end the lease with proper notice.

To learn more, review the Louisiana Civil Code (Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2678, 2728).

Notice Requirements for Lease Non-Renewal

Louisiana law has clear requirements on how much notice a landlord must give if they are not renewing a lease. The proper notice ensures you have time to plan your next steps.

• Month-to-Month Leases: The landlord must give at least 10 days written notice before the end of the current month (see La. Civ. Code Art. 2728).
• Fixed-Term Leases: Unless the lease says otherwise, there is no advance notice required—the lease simply ends at the agreed time. However, written communication is best practice.

If your landlord tries to end your lease without proper notice, you can seek help from Louisiana’s tenancy officials (details below).

Required Forms: Notice to Vacate

• Notice to Vacate Form: Louisiana law does not mandate a specific statewide form. A landlord’s written notice—delivered by mail, hand, or posted at your residence—is usually sufficient. If you want to see a sample, the Louisiana Attorney General's site offers general legal resources, but for tenancy matters, always check your local parish court.

Example: If you're renting month-to-month and your landlord decides not to renew, they must give you at least 10 days written notice before your next rent due date. If your lease is up on June 30, they need to give the notice by June 20.

Your Rights and What to Do Next

While landlords have significant leeway in Louisiana, you have basic rights:

• Protection from retaliation or discrimination (see HUD Fair Housing Rights).
• Advance written notice for non-renewal of a month-to-month lease.
• Right to contest improper or discriminatory notice by contacting local housing authorities or courts.

If you receive a notice of non-renewal and think it’s unfair or improper, consider gathering your documents and reaching out to free resources like legal aid or local courts.

The Tribunal Handling Tenancy Issues in Louisiana

Louisiana does not have a statewide tenancy tribunal. Instead, residential tenancy disputes are handled in your local Parish (District) Courts. For more information, find your district court via the Louisiana Supreme Court official courts directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord refuse to renew my lease for any reason in Louisiana?
   Landlords can generally choose not to renew a lease for almost any reason, but cannot do so for retaliatory or discriminatory reasons.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to provide in Louisiana for non-renewal?
   For month-to-month leases, at least 10 days written notice is required before the end of the current month. For fixed-term leases, the lease typically ends on the stated date with no additional notice needed unless agreed otherwise.
3. Is there a required form for lease non-renewal in Louisiana?
   No state-mandated form exists. Landlords just need to give clear written notice that you're required to leave at the end of your term.
4. What if I believe my landlord’s non-renewal is retaliatory?
   You may file a complaint with your parish court or consult local legal aid. Gather documentation supporting your case (such as written repair requests or related communications).
5. Where do I go to resolve tenancy disputes in Louisiana?
   Tenancy disputes are resolved in your local parish (district) court. Visit the Louisiana Supreme Court's official courts directory to find your court.

Conclusion: Key Points for Louisiana Renters

• Landlords in Louisiana do not have to renew expired leases but must avoid retaliation or discrimination.
• Month-to-month tenancies require at least 10 days’ written notice before non-renewal.
• If you need help or believe your rights are being violated, local district courts or tenant advocates can assist.

Lease renewal in Louisiana is straightforward, but knowing your rights and the correct steps can prevent confusion and unfair loss of housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana District and Parish Courts Directory – Find your local court for tenancy disputes.
• Louisiana Attorney General – General legal information and links to additional assistance.
• HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity – File a discrimination complaint or learn about fair housing rights.
• LouisianaLawHelp.org – Free legal aid information and resources for renters.

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1. Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2678 & 2728 – Lease Termination & Notice Requirements
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing Rights
3. Louisiana Supreme Court – Parish & District Court Directory

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