Louisiana Rental Properties: Your Rights to Safe Drinking Water

Having access to clean and safe drinking water in your rental home is a fundamental right. In Louisiana, both federal and state laws require landlords to provide tenants with water that meets minimum health and safety standards. If you're renting and have concerns about drinking water quality, understanding your rights and what steps to take can make a big difference in protecting your health and well-being.

Understanding Drinking Water Standards for Rentals in Louisiana

Louisiana landlords must supply tenants with water that is safe and meets the standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and enforced locally by the Louisiana Department of Health Safe Drinking Water Program. Water sources for rental properties may include municipal (city) water systems or private wells, each subject to specific requirements.

What Makes Water Unsafe?

• Presence of contaminants like lead, bacteria (e.g., E. coli), or chemicals
• Discolored, foul-smelling, or foul-tasting water
• Poor maintenance of plumbing or water fixtures causing health risks

If you notice any issues with your water's taste, appearance, or odor, report it to your landlord immediately.

Landlord Responsibilities for Water Quality

Under the Louisiana Civil Code Article 2691, landlords must maintain the property so it is fit for its intended use, which includes providing safe water. In cities or towns with municipal water, the landlord ensures your unit has an active connection to the public supply. For rentals with a private well, landlords are responsible for keeping the water potable and the system well-maintained.¹

Relevant Louisiana Tenant Legislation

• Louisiana Civil Code Sections 2668-2718: Residential Lease Law
• Louisiana Department of Health: Safe Drinking Water Program

This legislation covers your rights and outlines landlord duties to keep the rental "habitable," which includes working water free of dangerous contamination.

What To Do If You Suspect Unsafe Drinking Water

If you notice problems with your water at home, act promptly. Here are clear steps to follow:

• Document the issue: Take photos or videos showing discoloration, debris, or other water problems.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Clearly explain and request prompt repair or remediation.
• Contact local health authorities: The Louisiana Department of Health Safe Drinking Water Program can check water quality and investigate complaints.
• Submit a Formal Complaint: If unresolved, you can file a complaint using the "Drinking Water Quality Complaint Form." (See details below.)

Official Forms for Louisiana Renters

• Drinking Water Quality Complaint Form (LDH-SDWP-01) –
  Download the official complaint form (PDF)
  Use this form to report unsafe, discolored, or contaminated water in your rented home to the Louisiana Department of Health.
  Example: If your tap water smells like chemicals or appears dirty and your landlord does not address the problem, fill out and send this form to request an inspection.

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Water Disputes?

In Louisiana, the local city or parish court generally handles residential tenancy disputes, such as maintenance and habitability concerns. For water quality, you can also contact the Louisiana Department of Health Safe Drinking Water Program for assistance.

How to Submit a Drinking Water Complaint

• Download and complete the Drinking Water Quality Complaint Form.
• Be specific about your water issue and attach documentation, if possible.
• Submit by mail, email, or fax to the addresses listed on the form or call the Louisiana Department of Health directly at 225-342-7499.

The Department may conduct an on-site inspection or water test and can require your landlord to make repairs if a violation is confirmed.

FAQ: Safe Drinking Water in Louisiana Rentals

1. What should I do if my rental's drinking water is cloudy or smells bad?
   First, alert your landlord in writing with details about the problem. If unresolved, document the issue and contact the Louisiana Department of Health using their complaint form.
2. Is my landlord responsible for fixing water quality problems from a private well?
   Yes. Landlords must maintain private wells in safe, sanitary condition and ensure the water is potable under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2691.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t fix hazardous water conditions?
   Louisiana law does not directly allow rent withholding. Instead, pursue written repair requests, report to authorities, or seek guidance from local tenant legal aid before taking any further action.
4. Will authorities test my water if I report a problem?
   Yes, the Louisiana Department of Health may inspect or test the water after receiving a properly filed complaint form.

Key Takeaways

• Louisiana rental law ensures your right to safe, potable water at home.
• Landlords are responsible for maintaining water quality from public and private sources.
• If you suspect issues, notify your landlord, document the problem, and contact the Louisiana Department of Health as needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Department of Health Safe Drinking Water Program (225-342-7499): Report water issues or get testing information.
• Parish and City Courts – Landlord/Tenant Disputes: For unresolved housing habitability claims.
• Drinking Water Quality Complaint Form (PDF): For reporting suspected violations in rental homes.
• Louisiana Supreme Court: Rights of Renters: Useful guides on tenant rights and legal recourse.

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1. Louisiana Civil Code Article 2691 (Landlord's obligations regarding habitability)
2. Louisiana Department of Health: Safe Drinking Water Program and Drinking Water Complaint Form PDF
3. Louisiana Civil Code Sections 2668-2718: Residential Leases

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